• How NOT to Stress...that is the question!
• Posted: 2009-09-03 11:04:54 By Sabrina Smith
• For 10 years my doctor told me that " This stress is killing you" and it almost did. I'm 42 and just undergone open heart surgery. Heart desiese that was heridetery and manifested by STRESS.I have raised a special needs child who is now in and out of jail.I lost my home and belongings.My partner and I have moved in with my mother as care givers as she batteles Brest Cancer. Our business has all but folded and we are essentialy unemployed.....you get the picture. So how does someone who has spent a life time stressed and caring for outhers learn to let go and care for herself?

• Re: How NOT to Stress...that is the question!
• Posted: 2009-09-14 14:53:02 By Loretta LaRoche
• I am so sorry that these events are happening in your life. You have a true challenge in front of you. In one of my books I talk about Resiliency. Resilient people have realized that their mind can become an ally instead of the enemy during tough times. Here are a few techniques to help walk the resiliency trail:
  1.Remember that a thought can be latched onto or let go. It can't disturb you unless you let it.
  2.Think of times when you showed courage in the face of adversity. You have been the heroine of your saga many times. Resonate with you inner warrior. 3. Create and attitude of strength, and learn to walk purposefully. Stand tall and your mind will follow. 4. Keep in mind that millions of people throughout history have endured extraordinarily diffult or horific circumstances and survived to tell their tale. Keep some books on your nightstand that illustrate the stories of these courageous individuals. I love Lessons in Becoming Myself, by Ellen Burstyn.
  5. Build a cirlce of individuals who help you in your quest for solutions rather than those who enable you to stay stuck in the limbo of impossibilities.
  Until then you need to focus on your heart. The Institute of Heart-Math is an organization that looks at the scientific link between heart and mind and suggests ways to reduce stress. Learn more at www.heartmath.com.
  Try a quick and quiet meditation where you imagine that your breathing is centered in your heart. Slowly inhale, hold for several seconds, and then exhale. Continue doing so while imagining your breaths conming in and out of your heart. Keep practicing this breathing while you remember a good time in your life. If this is too difficult, find a sincere attitude of appreciation. Continue to focus your thoughts and breathing, and you will feel contentment and relaxation washing over you.
  "To awaken in life we first must awaken beyond life" The Sufi tradition says.
  I hope this helps you while you try and regain your life. I would like to talk with you again.
  I wish you much happiness.
  My Best
  Loretta

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