#stressreduction — Public Fediverse posts
Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #stressreduction, aggregated by home.social.
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DATE: June 27, 2026 at 06:00PM
SOURCE: PSYPOST.ORG** Research quality varies widely from fantastic to small exploratory studies. Please check research methods when conclusions are very important to you. **
-------------------------------------------------TITLE: Eight weeks of guided slow breathing alters stress responses in veterans
URL: https://www.psypost.org/eight-weeks-of-guided-slow-breathing-alters-stress-responses-in-veterans/
Practicing a specific type of guided slow breathing every day for eight weeks reduces the body’s physical fight-or-flight response to mental stress in veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder. The findings suggest that consistent breathing exercises might help protect the long-term cardiovascular health of people with trauma-related mental illness. The study was published in the American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology.
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a severe mental health condition that develops after a person experiences a terrifying event. People dealing with this condition face a much higher risk of developing high blood pressure and heart disease later in life. This elevated risk is tied to the way the condition alters the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions.
The autonomic nervous system is broadly divided into two branches. The sympathetic branch acts like a gas pedal to trigger the fight-or-flight response, while the parasympathetic branch acts as a brake to calm the body down. Individuals with trauma disorders often experience an overactive sympathetic nervous system, meaning their foot is constantly hovering over the physiological gas pedal.
When exposed to mental stress, these patients often exhibit exaggerated physical reactions. They experience rapid spikes in blood pressure and an onslaught of electrical impulses traveling through their sympathetic nerves. Over time, these intense physical reactions cause physical wear and tear on the heart and blood vessels.
Medications that dampen this nerve activity exist, but they often cause unwanted side effects. Some of these drugs are poorly tolerated and have metabolic impacts that can actually worsen cardiovascular risks. Medical professionals are searching for alternative, drug-free ways to calm the nervous system in this vulnerable population.
One potential intervention is device-guided slow breathing. This technique involves using an electronic biofeedback tool to help a person gradually slow their breathing rate. Previous research showed that a single session of this guided breathing briefly lowered blood pressure and nerve activity in trauma patients while they were actively doing the exercise.
Ida T. Fonkoue, a researcher at the Emory University School of Medicine and the Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, led a team to investigate whether these benefits could be sustained. The researchers wanted to see if daily practice over two months would permanently lower resting heart rates, blood pressure, and resting nerve activity. They also wanted to test if the breathing routine would dampen the body’s physical reaction to sudden mental stress.
The research team recruited 25 military veterans who had post-traumatic stress disorder and slightly elevated blood pressure. The participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups for an eight-week trial. Neither the researchers nor the participants knew who was placed in which group.
One group used an active guided breathing device for fifteen minutes every day at home. The machine used sensors strapped around the abdomen and musical tones in headphones to help users lower their breathing rate to about five or six breaths per minute. The second group used an identical machine that played similar music.
Instead of guiding the second group to breathe slowly, this placebo device kept them at a normal resting rate of about fourteen breaths per minute. Before the trial began, the researchers invited all participants to the laboratory for extensive baseline testing. They measured resting blood pressure, heart rate, and overall respiratory rates in a quiet room.
To directly measure the fight-or-flight response, the team used a specialized technique to track electrical signals in the sympathetic nerves. They inserted a microscopic tungsten wire into a prominent nerve in each participant’s leg. This allowed them to count the exact number of nerve impulses traveling toward the muscle tissue in real time.
The researchers also tested the body’s natural blood pressure regulation system, known as the baroreflex. They did this by administering drugs through an intravenous line to artificially raise and lower blood pressure over a short period. They watched how the brain adjusted the heart rate and nerve signals to compensate for the sudden changes.
Finally, they tested how the participants reacted to an acute mental challenge. The veterans were asked to perform rapid mental math. They subtracted numbers in their head for three minutes while study staff in white coats urged them to go faster and be more accurate, a proven way to induce mental stress.
After eight weeks of practice at home, the participants returned to the laboratory to repeat the entire battery of tests. The researchers found that the daily breathing exercises did not alter the participants’ resting heart rate or resting blood pressure. Resting nerve activity also remained entirely unchanged in both groups.
The body’s blood pressure regulation system did not improve, and post-traumatic stress symptoms did not ease in either group. In other words, the daily intervention did not seem to provide a permanent, round-the-clock calming effect on the body’s physiological baseline. But when the researchers looked at the mental math test results, they noticed a distinct difference in how the nerves reacted.
For the group using the placebo device, the mental math stressor triggered the same high rate of nerve impulses as it did at the beginning of the study. For the group practicing the slow breathing exercises, the body responded differently. Their nerve activity spiked much less intensely during the mental math test than it had eight weeks prior.
The results indicate that long-term use of guided slow breathing can fundamentally alter how the sympathetic nervous system handles sudden stress. Even when the veterans were not actively using the breathing machine, their fight-or-flight nerves remained calmer under pressure. The researchers suggested this might help shield the cardiovascular system from the harmful effects of daily psychiatric stress.
Oddly, this dampened nerve reaction did not translate into lower blood pressure during the math test. Blood pressure spiked just as high in the slow-breathing group as it did in the placebo group. The researchers suspect other biological mechanisms, such as floating hormones or changes in blood vessel dilation, might be driving the blood pressure spikes independently of the nerve impulses.
The study had a few limitations that might affect how broadly the conclusions can be applied. The participant pool was relatively small and consisted primarily of African American male veterans. The biological responses to the breathing exercises might look slightly different in women or in civilian populations.
The team also only measured nerve activity directed toward the skeletal muscles. They could not determine if the breathing technique reduced nerve activity directed toward other organs like the heart or kidneys. A short period of abstaining from certain psychiatric medications before testing might also not have been long enough to clear the drugs from the participants’ systems entirely.
Moving forward, researchers need to conduct larger trials to see if these nervous system changes actually translate into lower rates of heart disease over time. Future investigations might also look into whether the breathing exercises reduce underlying inflammation in patients with trauma disorders. Studies exploring how the practice affects heart rate variability over longer periods could also provide deeper insights into the body’s stress response.
The study, “Eight weeks of device-guided slow breathing decreases sympathetic nervous reactivity to stress in posttraumatic stress disorder,” was authored by Ida T. Fonkoue, Yingtian Hu, Toure Jones, Monica Vemulapalli, Justin D. Sprick, Barbara Rothbaum, and Jeanie Park.
URL: https://www.psypost.org/eight-weeks-of-guided-slow-breathing-alters-stress-responses-in-veterans/
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Private, vetted email list for mental health professionals: https://www.clinicians-exchange.org
Unofficial Psychology Today Xitter to toot feed at Psych Today Unofficial Bot @PTUnofficialBot
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#psychology #counseling #socialwork #psychotherapy @psychotherapist @psychotherapists @psychology @socialpsych @socialwork @psychiatry #mentalhealth #psychiatry #healthcare #depression #psychotherapist #SlowBreathingTherapy #PTSDresearch #VeteransHealth #StressReduction #AutonomicNervousSystem #BreathingExercise #HeartHealth #NerveActivity #MindBodyInterventions #DeviceGuidedBreathing
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DATE: June 27, 2026 at 06:00PM
SOURCE: PSYPOST.ORG** Research quality varies widely from fantastic to small exploratory studies. Please check research methods when conclusions are very important to you. **
-------------------------------------------------TITLE: Eight weeks of guided slow breathing alters stress responses in veterans
URL: https://www.psypost.org/eight-weeks-of-guided-slow-breathing-alters-stress-responses-in-veterans/
Practicing a specific type of guided slow breathing every day for eight weeks reduces the body’s physical fight-or-flight response to mental stress in veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder. The findings suggest that consistent breathing exercises might help protect the long-term cardiovascular health of people with trauma-related mental illness. The study was published in the American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology.
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a severe mental health condition that develops after a person experiences a terrifying event. People dealing with this condition face a much higher risk of developing high blood pressure and heart disease later in life. This elevated risk is tied to the way the condition alters the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions.
The autonomic nervous system is broadly divided into two branches. The sympathetic branch acts like a gas pedal to trigger the fight-or-flight response, while the parasympathetic branch acts as a brake to calm the body down. Individuals with trauma disorders often experience an overactive sympathetic nervous system, meaning their foot is constantly hovering over the physiological gas pedal.
When exposed to mental stress, these patients often exhibit exaggerated physical reactions. They experience rapid spikes in blood pressure and an onslaught of electrical impulses traveling through their sympathetic nerves. Over time, these intense physical reactions cause physical wear and tear on the heart and blood vessels.
Medications that dampen this nerve activity exist, but they often cause unwanted side effects. Some of these drugs are poorly tolerated and have metabolic impacts that can actually worsen cardiovascular risks. Medical professionals are searching for alternative, drug-free ways to calm the nervous system in this vulnerable population.
One potential intervention is device-guided slow breathing. This technique involves using an electronic biofeedback tool to help a person gradually slow their breathing rate. Previous research showed that a single session of this guided breathing briefly lowered blood pressure and nerve activity in trauma patients while they were actively doing the exercise.
Ida T. Fonkoue, a researcher at the Emory University School of Medicine and the Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, led a team to investigate whether these benefits could be sustained. The researchers wanted to see if daily practice over two months would permanently lower resting heart rates, blood pressure, and resting nerve activity. They also wanted to test if the breathing routine would dampen the body’s physical reaction to sudden mental stress.
The research team recruited 25 military veterans who had post-traumatic stress disorder and slightly elevated blood pressure. The participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups for an eight-week trial. Neither the researchers nor the participants knew who was placed in which group.
One group used an active guided breathing device for fifteen minutes every day at home. The machine used sensors strapped around the abdomen and musical tones in headphones to help users lower their breathing rate to about five or six breaths per minute. The second group used an identical machine that played similar music.
Instead of guiding the second group to breathe slowly, this placebo device kept them at a normal resting rate of about fourteen breaths per minute. Before the trial began, the researchers invited all participants to the laboratory for extensive baseline testing. They measured resting blood pressure, heart rate, and overall respiratory rates in a quiet room.
To directly measure the fight-or-flight response, the team used a specialized technique to track electrical signals in the sympathetic nerves. They inserted a microscopic tungsten wire into a prominent nerve in each participant’s leg. This allowed them to count the exact number of nerve impulses traveling toward the muscle tissue in real time.
The researchers also tested the body’s natural blood pressure regulation system, known as the baroreflex. They did this by administering drugs through an intravenous line to artificially raise and lower blood pressure over a short period. They watched how the brain adjusted the heart rate and nerve signals to compensate for the sudden changes.
Finally, they tested how the participants reacted to an acute mental challenge. The veterans were asked to perform rapid mental math. They subtracted numbers in their head for three minutes while study staff in white coats urged them to go faster and be more accurate, a proven way to induce mental stress.
After eight weeks of practice at home, the participants returned to the laboratory to repeat the entire battery of tests. The researchers found that the daily breathing exercises did not alter the participants’ resting heart rate or resting blood pressure. Resting nerve activity also remained entirely unchanged in both groups.
The body’s blood pressure regulation system did not improve, and post-traumatic stress symptoms did not ease in either group. In other words, the daily intervention did not seem to provide a permanent, round-the-clock calming effect on the body’s physiological baseline. But when the researchers looked at the mental math test results, they noticed a distinct difference in how the nerves reacted.
For the group using the placebo device, the mental math stressor triggered the same high rate of nerve impulses as it did at the beginning of the study. For the group practicing the slow breathing exercises, the body responded differently. Their nerve activity spiked much less intensely during the mental math test than it had eight weeks prior.
The results indicate that long-term use of guided slow breathing can fundamentally alter how the sympathetic nervous system handles sudden stress. Even when the veterans were not actively using the breathing machine, their fight-or-flight nerves remained calmer under pressure. The researchers suggested this might help shield the cardiovascular system from the harmful effects of daily psychiatric stress.
Oddly, this dampened nerve reaction did not translate into lower blood pressure during the math test. Blood pressure spiked just as high in the slow-breathing group as it did in the placebo group. The researchers suspect other biological mechanisms, such as floating hormones or changes in blood vessel dilation, might be driving the blood pressure spikes independently of the nerve impulses.
The study had a few limitations that might affect how broadly the conclusions can be applied. The participant pool was relatively small and consisted primarily of African American male veterans. The biological responses to the breathing exercises might look slightly different in women or in civilian populations.
The team also only measured nerve activity directed toward the skeletal muscles. They could not determine if the breathing technique reduced nerve activity directed toward other organs like the heart or kidneys. A short period of abstaining from certain psychiatric medications before testing might also not have been long enough to clear the drugs from the participants’ systems entirely.
Moving forward, researchers need to conduct larger trials to see if these nervous system changes actually translate into lower rates of heart disease over time. Future investigations might also look into whether the breathing exercises reduce underlying inflammation in patients with trauma disorders. Studies exploring how the practice affects heart rate variability over longer periods could also provide deeper insights into the body’s stress response.
The study, “Eight weeks of device-guided slow breathing decreases sympathetic nervous reactivity to stress in posttraumatic stress disorder,” was authored by Ida T. Fonkoue, Yingtian Hu, Toure Jones, Monica Vemulapalli, Justin D. Sprick, Barbara Rothbaum, and Jeanie Park.
URL: https://www.psypost.org/eight-weeks-of-guided-slow-breathing-alters-stress-responses-in-veterans/
-------------------------------------------------
Private, vetted email list for mental health professionals: https://www.clinicians-exchange.org
Unofficial Psychology Today Xitter to toot feed at Psych Today Unofficial Bot @PTUnofficialBot
-------------------------------------------------
#psychology #counseling #socialwork #psychotherapy @psychotherapist @psychotherapists @psychology @socialpsych @socialwork @psychiatry #mentalhealth #psychiatry #healthcare #depression #psychotherapist #SlowBreathingTherapy #PTSDresearch #VeteransHealth #StressReduction #AutonomicNervousSystem #BreathingExercise #HeartHealth #NerveActivity #MindBodyInterventions #DeviceGuidedBreathing
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"People who regularly read #books may live longer than those who don’t" - time to get your #reading on!
Can Reading Really Help You Live Longer? Here's What Experts Say
https://www.verywellmind.com/can-reading-help-you-live-longer-11975116#mentalhealth #stressreduction #cognitivereserve #escapism #libraries #socializing
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"People who regularly read #books may live longer than those who don’t" - time to get your #reading on!
Can Reading Really Help You Live Longer? Here's What Experts Say
https://www.verywellmind.com/can-reading-help-you-live-longer-11975116#mentalhealth #stressreduction #cognitivereserve #escapism #libraries #socializing
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Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
Press play when you’re ready to feel calm and relaxed.
#ThreeMinuteChill #Yoga #SelfCare #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
https://thunderhoneysnowstudio.ca/video/3-minute-chill-s-breath/
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Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
Press play when you’re ready to feel calm and relaxed.
#ThreeMinuteChill #Yoga #SelfCare #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
https://thunderhoneysnowstudio.ca/video/3-minute-chill-s-breath/
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And don't skip the jaw. If you're on back-to-back calls, that tension is probably sitting tight right there.
Under five minutes you've got clearer thinking, lower heart rate, and an actual mental reset between meetings. Way better than another coffee run.
#Biohacking #PeakPerformance #Optimization #Productivity #Focus #Efficiency #Wellness #StressReduction #Energy #MentalClarity (2/2)
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Study Finds Taking A Vacation Every 2 Months Can Reduce Stress And Boost Work Performance
In today’s fast-paced wor…
#NewsBeep #News #Mentalhealth #benefitsofvacation #burnoutprevention #CA #Canada #employeewell-being #flexibleleavepolicies #frequentvacations #Health #healthbenefitsoftravelling #mentalhealthrecovery #MentalHealth #psychologicaldetachment #stressreduction #travelbenefits #travelresearch #Vacation #vacationbenefits #workstress #work-lifebalance
https://www.newsbeep.com/ca/685650/ -
https://www.europesays.com/ie/496864/ Study Finds Taking A Vacation Every 2 Months Can Reduce Stress And Boost Work Performance #BenefitsOfVacation #BurnoutPrevention #Éire #EmployeeWellBeing #FlexibleLeavePolicies #FrequentVacations #Health #HealthBenefitsOfTravelling #IE #Ireland #MentalHealth #MentalHealthRecovery #MentalHealth #PsychologicalDetachment #StressReduction #TravelBenefits #TravelResearch #vacation #VacationBenefits #WorkLifeBalance #WorkStress
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https://www.europesays.com/uk/976638/ Study Finds Taking A Vacation Every 2 Months Can Reduce Stress And Boost Work Performance #BenefitsOfVacation #BurnoutPrevention #EmployeeWellBeing #FlexibleLeavePolicies #FrequentVacations #Health #HealthBenefitsOfTravelling #MentalHealth #MentalHealthRecovery #PsychologicalDetachment #StressReduction #TravelBenefits #TravelResearch #UK #UnitedKingdom #vacation #VacationBenefits #WorkLifeBalance #WorkStress
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10 “Grandma Hobbies” That Ease Anxiety Symptoms – From Crocheting to Gardening https://www.allforgardening.com/1627866/10-grandma-hobbies-that-ease-anxiety-symptoms-from-crocheting-to-gardening/ #AnxietyRelief #CreativeTherapy #garden #gardening #GrandmaHobbies #MentalWellness #MindfulLiving #SlowLiving #StressReduction
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10 “Grandma Hobbies” That Ease Anxiety Symptoms – From Crocheting to Gardening https://www.allforgardening.com/1627866/10-grandma-hobbies-that-ease-anxiety-symptoms-from-crocheting-to-gardening/ #AnxietyRelief #CreativeTherapy #garden #gardening #GrandmaHobbies #MentalWellness #MindfulLiving #SlowLiving #StressReduction
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Sometimes I watch my thoughts like they are muted reruns of a favorite childhood TV show where I know the lines by heart.
Curious about meditation? 👉 https://lttr.ai/Anjne
#thoughtechoes #meditation #mindfulness #StressReduction #HighBloodPressure
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Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
Press play when you’re ready to feel calm and relaxed.
#ThreeMinuteChill #Yoga #SelfCare #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
https://thunderhoneysnowstudio.ca/video/3-minute-chill-s-breath/
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Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
Press play when you’re ready to feel calm and relaxed.
#ThreeMinuteChill #Yoga #SelfCare #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
https://thunderhoneysnowstudio.ca/video/3-minute-chill-s-breath/
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Dr. Alice Rizzi shares a few mindfulness practices specifically helpful for people who struggle with perfectionism, all-or-nothing thinking in this Thinkydoers episode.
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/Ahd0U
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Dr. Alice Rizzi shares a few mindfulness practices specifically helpful for people who struggle with perfectionism, all-or-nothing thinking in this Thinkydoers episode.
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/Ahd0U
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I used to think meditation meant eliminating thoughts. Turns out, my mind had other plans. Here’s how a more mindful approach helped me reconnect with myself — and how you can try it too. Read the full post 👇
https://www.originalmacguy.com/why-breath-only-meditation-failed-me-and-what-im-doing-now-pt-2/
#mindfulness #meditation #selfawareness #mentalhealth #mindfulbreathing #GilFronsdal #emotionalawareness #stressreduction #personalgrowth
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The Wisdom Of Just For Today
Most people familiar with Reiki have heard the principles of Reiki a time or two. Or you may have come across them at your local yoga studio as a gentle reminder to practice mindfulness. If you have not heard of the Reiki Principles, you are in for a treat, dear reader, as we explore the meaning and wisdom of each one.
Just for today, I will not worry.
Just for today, I will not be angry.
Just for today, I will do my work honestly.
Just for today, I will give thanks for my many blessings.
Just for today, I will be kind to my neighbor and every living thing.
Just for today, I will not worry.
Worry is the thief of time. When we worry, we are not living in the present moment and are allowing the future to invade our now-ness. The beauty of just for today, I will not worry, is that we are not saying we will never worry again- thus creating more anxiety. We focus on the present and what is currently in our control.
Let’s talk about anxiety briefly. Anxiety is a common emotion characterized by feelings of worry, fear, and unease. Everyone experiences anxiety to some degree at some point in their life, but for some people, anxiety can become overwhelming and interfere with their daily activities.
I suffered from social anxiety and general anxiety off and on for years. It was worse during my last year in college. At the time, I did not have adequate coping skills. I remember having a panic attack in the middle of a calculus exam- I wound up withdrawing from the class.
It was shortly after this I started looking into self-hypnosis and meditation to help with my anxiety. If someone had told me then, “Just for today, do not worry,” I would have told them where they could shove their pithy phrase!
It is difficult to extract oneself from emotional turmoil if there has not been practice while calm. Years of meditation practice have fostered a stillness within, a place of refuge available even amid anxiety.
Do I still worry from time to time- absolutely! However, my moments of worry no longer spiral outward, causing panic attacks or indecision. I can take a breath and ask myself some pertinent questions, such as:
Is there anything I can do about the situation in the moment?
Is worry going to affect the outcome or make things worse?
The answer to these questions is usually NO. So I focus on my breath, gently reminding myself I have no control over the outcome of most life situations.
Again, this hasn’t happened overnight- this is years of practice – there is no mastering, only continued practice.
Just for today, I will not be angry.
Anger is a natural and normal emotion that everyone experiences occasionally, often described as intense displeasure, frustration, or annoyance that arises in response to a perceived threat or injustice.
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.comThe keyword is perceived. We tend to take situations personally, even when not meant to be. This can lead us down a path of frustration and anger, which can harm our well-being. By recognizing this tendency and approaching situations objectively and rationally, we can free ourselves from unnecessary negative emotions and find a more positive and fulfilling path forward.
Anger can range from mild irritation to intense rage and can be triggered by various internal or external factors. While some levels of anger are healthy and can even be productive, excessive or uncontrolled anger can harm us and others. Managing and expressing our anger healthily is essential to maintaining positive relationships and overall well-being.
For example, my morning commute can be the worst part of my day. Aggressive driving on the highway is dangerous and stressful, as I am routinely cut off by drivers who insist on weaving in and out of traffic at high speeds. Occasionally, when cut off, my anger is intense- I curse and yell, honk my horn, and sometimes stew about the other driver for the rest of my commute or longer, continually sending waves of anger throughout my entire body. Not healthy.
If I remember my Reiki principles during these experiences, I can extricate myself from the emotional turmoil. The other driver is not out to get me or anyone else- they are only concerned with themselves. And perhaps they are in a crisis. Maybe someone is sick and racing to get to a hospital. When I allow these thoughts to arise, I can have compassion for the other person and pray or send them healing energy on their journey.
This also helps my journey, as instead of waves of anger washing through every cell of my vessel, I am sending compassion because, just for today, I will not be angry.
Just for today, I will do my work honestly.
This principle occasionally needs clarification. It applies to professional work as well as to work done in personal or professional settings. Working honestly means not taking shortcuts and being truthful about one’s abilities.
In a professional setting, we strive for integrity in our work by paying attention to detail and deadlines and asking for help when necessary. It means putting our ego aside to accomplish what is best for the whole.
In our personal endeavors, working honestly can refer to taking care of family and friends responsibly and cultivating relationships supported by mutual trust.
Photo by fauxels on Pexels.comWith the current profusion of AI in industry, this principle takes center stage. We need to ask ourselves if we are responsibly using this technology. Using AI to write entire blog posts or essays without acknowledging AI is not ethical, in my opinion. This technology is a wonderful asset for constructing outlines, spawning ideas, or correcting grammar and spelling mistakes, as we have all used spellcheck for years. Yet, the temptation to use it as an “easy button” constantly exists.
By remembering the principle of just for today, I will do my work honestly; we can relieve ourselves of the temptation to take shortcuts, for there are lessons in making mistakes. The regular practice of our skills hones our unique, authentic voice, the true voice we should share with the world. The voice of AI lacks humanness. The compassion that a life resplendent of love and sorrow, pleasure and pain, and failure and triumph allows us to have a deep, honest connection with others, as it is in these emotions that we share common humanity.
Just for today, I will give thanks for my many blessings.
This seems simple enough, yet we forget how blessed we are in moments of sorrow or dealing with many hardships. However, even amid turmoil, we can shift our energy and perspective if we can find some small way to be grateful.
One way to shift your perspective is to reflect on the blessings in your life, no matter how big or small they may be. I have found it helpful for my mental health to appreciate the simple blessings of having good health, a place to live, and food to eat. If we have these things, we are luckier than a significant portion of the human population. However, we should avoid comparing ourselves to our friends and family, as it can lead to feelings of jealousy and dissatisfaction. If you find yourself on this path, ask yourself why it matters if others have more than you.
We must remind ourselves that everyone’s journey is unique, and comparing our blessings to others often leads to unnecessary stress on our mental well-being. Gratitude is a powerful tool that can help us navigate challenging times by acknowledging the positive aspects of our lives. It allows us to focus on what we do have rather than what we lack, fostering a sense of contentment and fulfillment. Embracing an attitude of gratitude can profoundly impact our overall outlook, promoting resilience and a more positive mindset.
Just for today, I will be kind to my neighbor and every living thing.
This seems simple enough, right? Yet we all, at some point, take out our frustrations on others who are not deserving of our ire. We need to remember that everyone is fighting their own battles, and a simple smile can profoundly affect someone’s day.
We must also be aware of our actions concerning the natural world of which we are an intrinsic part. Due to technology and our selfish trappings, we forget that we have no more right to a radiant life than any other part of existence. We exist in a web of life where every part matters or nothing does. We only realize our impact when we see news headlines regarding the garbage patch in the oceans or when wildlife encroaches on our dwellings because we selfishly take THEIR land and homes from them in the name of progress. Is it progress if we destroy our only home in the process?
Photo by Alex Andrews on Pexels.comThe interconnectedness of all life on Earth is a fundamental truth often overlooked in pursuing human development and progress. The advancement of technology has led to a disconnect between humanity and the natural world, fostering a sense of entitlement and detachment from our responsibilities as caretakers of the planet. It is crucial to acknowledge that our actions have far-reaching consequences, affecting our well-being and the delicate balance of the ecosystems that support all forms of life.
The timeless wisdom encapsulated in the Reiki principles gently reminds us of our interconnectedness with the universe and each other. Through daily mindfulness, compassion, honesty, gratitude, and kindness, we can cultivate a more harmonious and conscious way of being.
If you would like to immerse yourself in the wisdom of Just for Today, listen to a guided meditation designed to foster presence and acceptance.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4AGlTZ0uy4qYDlCmR6WIjq?si=lQRMjXJPRcqfCCpPONbU7Q
Namaste.
#anxiety #awareness #balance #calm #calmAndCentered #healing #justForToday #meditation #mentalwellbeing #mindful #MindfulLiving #mindfulness #mindfulnesspractice #peacefulLife #practice #reiki #reikiMasterTeacher #reikiPrinciples #resilience #simplemeditationpractice #simplepratice #stressRelief #stressreduction
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Man's response to his girlfriend's hormonal breakdown taught 2.7 million people how to love again
https://web.brid.gy/r/https://www.upworthy.com/man-wins-with-crashout-response
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Aw, they love us!
What owning a #cat does to your #brain (and theirs) https://theconversation.com/what-owning-a-cat-does-to-your-brain-and-theirs-264396
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Aw, they love us!
What owning a #cat does to your #brain (and theirs) https://theconversation.com/what-owning-a-cat-does-to-your-brain-and-theirs-264396
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How can mindfulness help manage the overwhelming stress and anxiety of modern life?
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/Ahd0Q
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How can mindfulness help manage the overwhelming stress and anxiety of modern life?
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/Ahd0Q
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Humming Benefits: Not meditation, not exercise: The 5-minute habit that improves heart and brain health |
In the constant rush of life, everyone is searching for quick ways to stay healthy. Some find peace…
#NewsBeep #News #US #USA #UnitedStates #UnitedStatesOfAmerica #Fitness #brainhealth #Health #healthandwellness #HeartHealth #hummingbenefits #hummingdailypractice #improvecirculation #Mentalhealth #naturalhealthhabits #nitricoxide #stressreduction
https://www.newsbeep.com/us/100336/ -
3-minute chill S Breath
Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
#ThreeMinuteChill #Yoga #SelfCare #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
https://thunderhoneysnowstudio.ca/video/3-minute-chill-s-breath/
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3-minute chill S Breath
Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
#ThreeMinuteChill #Yoga #SelfCare #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
https://thunderhoneysnowstudio.ca/video/3-minute-chill-s-breath/
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Dr. Alice Rizzi shares a few mindfulness practices specifically helpful for people who struggle with perfectionism, all-or-nothing thinking in this Thinkydoers episode.
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/AfAC7
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Dr. Alice Rizzi shares a few mindfulness practices specifically helpful for people who struggle with perfectionism, all-or-nothing thinking in this Thinkydoers episode.
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/AfAC7
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Restoring Balance: The Future of Mental Health Treatments
#MentalWellness #BrainScience #Neurotransmitters #Mindfulness #EmotionalResilience #MentalHealthTips #Neuroplasticity #AnxietyRelief #DepressionHelp #MindfulnessTherapy #BrainHealth #StressReduction #InnovativeTreatments #SelfCare #MentalHealthMatters
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Discover how being present enhances productivity! We explore why rushing leads to mistakes. Embrace the moment, focus on current tasks. Forget future worries and past regrets. Be where we are! #Mindfulness #Productivity #PresentMoment #StressReduction #Focus #Wellbeing #SelfImprovement #TimeManagement #MentalHealth #InnerPeace
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CosmicNation helped transfer my content from tmg.cosmicnation.co to my Patreon site, https://patreon.com/TMGmeditations. This eliminates the need for two separate community websites. Patreon supports public posts and free memberships, so even non-supporting members can enjoy my free content. While some may disapprove, I must consider my time and stress levels just like everyone else.
#CosmicNation #Patreon #TMGmeditations #ContentTransfer #CommunityWebsite #FreeContent #TimeManagement #StressReduction
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The Science Behind Chakras and Energy Flow
Over the last two decades, references to chakras and chakra healing/balancing have exploded into mainstream culture, capturing the attention of many who seek holistic approaches to well-being. The increasing popularity of these concepts has led to a vast array of resources, workshops, and communities dedicated to exploring chakra work. Meditations, Reiki healings, and yoga practices have sprung up around this concept, allowing Westerners a glimpse of traditional healing practices from the Hindu culture, blending ancient wisdom with modern techniques. As individuals strive for emotional balance, physical health, and spiritual growth, focusing on chakras has inspired a deeper understanding and appreciation of energy systems that influence our lives, encouraging many to incorporate these ideas into their daily routines for a more harmonious existence.
Greater Wellbeing
These practices provide insights into how we relate to ourselves, others, and the greater world around us, allowing us to explore the energetic nature of the universe while deepening our understanding of interconnectedness. By examining the intricate web of relationships that bind us, we nurture our personal growth and the well-being of those around us. This journey of self-discovery touches upon the scientific aspects of how everything we think, feel, or interact with causes subtle shifts in our physical body, as recent research in fields such as psychology and quantum physics is now proving. As we delve deeper into this relationship between mind and matter, we uncover the profound impact our thoughts and emotions have on our health, ultimately fostering a more holistic approach to living harmoniously in alignment with the natural rhythms of existence.
The Chakras
First, let us reexamine the nature of the chakra system as it relates to Hindu culture. The term “Chakra” originates from Sanskrit and means “wheel.” Chakras are energy centers that serve as spinning vortexes in a vertical line through the body, from the spine’s base to the head’s crown. There are seven significant chakras, each linked to various endocrine glands and responsible for energy flow to specific organs, influencing physical and emotional well-being. Each chakra corresponds to a rainbow color—red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet—and resonates with distinct musical tones at varying frequencies. These centers embody spiritual energy in the physical realm, acting as gateways for the life force known as “Prana.” When balanced and aligned, chakras promote harmony and vitality, while blockages can result in physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges. Working with the chakra system can lead to personal transformation and holistic healing, fostering deeper self-awareness and connection to the universe.
Chakra-symbols-and-names13
By Adamo Corazza
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.0/legalcodeBalancing of Energies
Based on their location in the body, chakras correspond to specific states of consciousness, emotional functions, and philosophical constructs, creating a framework for understanding our experiences. The lower chakras govern practical aspects of life, such as survival, stability, and trust, forming a foundation for relationships and aspirations, while the upper chakras connect to higher states of awareness, intuition, and self-manifestation. Together, they provide a body-mind connection that aids personal growth and self-discovery, enriching our understanding of our place in the universe. Nurturing and balancing these energy centers contributes to our health and abilities in navigating life’s challenges with resilience and grace.
Energetic Workings
Let us take a moment to explore the nature of this energetic flow of chakras. The energy from emotional responses to physical stimuli runs along the chakras, creating a dynamic system that “feeds” our cells, tissues, and organs with vital life force. Each chakra plays a unique role in this process, serving as an energy exchange conduit and influencing our physical and emotional well-being. Just as our unseen breath nourishes the body with life-giving oxygen, the unseen energy we create can either nourish or deplete us, shaping our experiences and interactions with the world around us. Understanding this intricate connection between our emotions and energy flow can empower us to cultivate a healthier and more balanced life, as we learn to harness and direct this powerful energy for our benefit and those around us.
Mindful Moment:
Pay attention to your physical responses next time you experience a strong emotion. Did your heart rate increase? Do you feel warmth in certain areas?
This is the emotional energy manifesting as a physical sensation. Prolonged emotional responses such as anxiety can manifest physically as ulcers, headaches, and a host of other ailments, including fatigue and digestive issues. This connection between the mind and body underscores the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Recognizing how our feelings impact our physical state can empower us to seek healthier coping mechanisms. This is why it is essential to be aware of your body’s physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual states; understanding these aspects can lead to a more balanced life and improved wellbeing.
Having balanced, unblocked chakras assists in keeping the rest of the body in balance and promotes overall well-being. When aligned, these energy centers enhance not only physical health but also emotional stability and mental clarity.
The Science of Chakras
Quantum physics offers a fascinating lens through which we can understand the chakra system and its relevance to energy and consciousness. At its core, quantum physics studies the fundamental nature of reality, examining how subatomic particles interact and exist in ways that often defy classical physics. This opens up intriguing possibilities for exploring energetic systems like chakras.
Interconnected
One key concept in quantum physics is that everything is interconnected at a fundamental level. This idea echoes the beliefs surrounding chakras, which propose that energy flows through the body and connects us to the universe. Just as particles can be entangled, influencing one another regardless of distance, energy centers within our bodies can impact our physical, emotional, and spiritual states. This interconnectedness suggests that our thoughts and emotions, which are forms of energy, can manifest in our physical health and well-being.
Mind Over Matter
Moreover, the principle of wave-particle duality in quantum physics posits that particles, such as photons and electrons, can exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties depending on how they are observed. This can relate to chakras in that our perceptions and intentions can influence how energy moves and flows through our bodies. For instance, a positive mindset and balanced emotional state can promote healthy energy flow, while negative thoughts or emotional disturbances might create blockages in our chakras.
Biological Mindfulness
Recent research in quantum biology also indicates that energy transfer at the molecular level can significantly affect biological processes. By understanding how consciousness and thought patterns interact with energy systems, practitioners of chakra healing may be able to harness this knowledge to promote well-being. This connection between quantum physics and chakras provides a scientifically intriguing perspective, enabling us to explore deeper aspects of their existence and embrace holistic approaches to health that align with these energy principles.
Discovering Balance
Quantum physics offers insights into the energetic frameworks that govern our existence, aligning with and enriching our comprehension of the chakra system. By bridging scientific inquiry and spiritual traditions, we are encouraged to embrace the potential for personal transformation and healing at physical, emotional, and spiritual levels. But you do not need to have a background in science to experience the benefits of chakra healing. By simply tuning into your body with daily practice, you become more familiar with your unique energetic blueprint, discovering how each chakra influences your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. As you engage in this practice more consistently, you may find that you can easily identify areas where energy may be blocked or imbalanced, allowing you to address these concerns in a mindful way. This self-exploration enhances your understanding of your energy and fosters a deeper connection to the world around you, empowering you to lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Chakra Balancing Course
Learn more with a guided 10-day Chakra Balancing course thoughtfully designed to enhance your understanding and practice of energy healing. Throughout this comprehensive program, you will discover the distinct characteristics of the seven primary chakras, delving into their unique qualities, colors, and influences on our physical and emotional well-being. This knowledge will empower you to tap into their energy in a way that promotes healing and balance, ultimately leading to a more harmonious daily life.
In today’s fast-paced world, our current lifestyle often causes us to lose touch with our natural selves and the energy flows within our bodies. However, this course will serve as a transformative experience, guiding you to reconnect with your innermost being through various techniques, exercises, and meditative practices tailored for each chakra. I like to engage with the course a few times a year to rebalance my energy and refresh my perspective, finding that the deliberate focus on these energy centers invites clarity and peace into my life. I have found that this practice is most effective around the change of seasons, as we naturally shift in body, mind, and spirit, allowing me to align with the rhythms of nature and embrace the shifts that come with each new phase of life. By committing to this journey, you will foster personal growth and self-awareness and cultivate a deeper connection to the world around you.
Available on Insight Timer.
#balance #chakra #chakraCourse #consciousness #course #energy #energyHealing #energyWork #experience #guidedCourse #healing #heartChakra #leearnChakras #meditation #mindful #mindfulness #physics #practice #selfcare #stressReduction #throatChakra #wellbeing
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Embrace Mindfulness: Your Guide to Wellness Techniques and Practices
#Mindfulness #WellnessJourney #Yoga #Meditation #BreathingExercises #MindfulLiving #MentalHealth #CognitiveTherapy #StressReduction #HealthyMind #Neurofeedback #MusicTherapy #YogaNidra #EmotionalWellbeing #HolisticHealth #SelfCare #MindbodyConnection
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Unlocking Wellness: Mindfulness Techniques for a Balanced Life
#Mindfulness #WellnessJourney #Yoga #Meditation #BreathingExercises #MentalHealth #MindfulnessBasedTherapy #YogaNidra #Neurofeedback #MusicTherapy #HolisticHealth #SelfCare #HealthyLiving #EmotionalWellbeing #StressReduction
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Finding Balance: Mastering Emotions through Mindfulness and Self-Compassion
#Mindfulness #EmotionalRegulation #SelfCompassion #MentalHealth #CognitiveTherapy #StressReduction #EmotionalWellness #MindfulnessBasedTherapy #Resilience #PositiveThinking #EmotionalIntelligence #CompassionateMind #MentalHealthAwareness #MindfulLiving #EmotionalExploration
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3-minute chill S Breath
Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
Press play when you’re ready to feel calm and relaxed.
#Yoga #DailyYoga #YogaEveryDay #ChillYoga #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
-
3-minute chill S Breath
Not enough time and too much stress? This 3-minute breath practice is for you. Learn and practice S breath. This brief but effective pranayama (breath) practice will leave you feeling chill. No special skills or equipment required!
Press play when you’re ready to feel calm and relaxed.
#Yoga #DailyYoga #YogaEveryDay #ChillYoga #Pranayama #Breath #BreathPractice #Breathe #Calm #Stress #StressReduction #Relax #Chill
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Dr. Alice Rizzi offers Thinkydoers listeners a resource encouraging us to: "find three minutes in your day to do some mindfulness practices, and I show you seven different ways that you can do it, only one of which is sitting and breathing."
Read more 👉 https://lttr.ai/AaWyS
#Mindfulness #StressReduction #Overthinkers #Perfectionism #MentalHealth #MentalHealthSupport
