May 22nd, 2020

By, Cassie Johnston

This unprecedented stressful time can be so draining on our minds. It’s important to remember our health and mental state. During these times people can easily feel isolated, alone, sad, angry, or frustrated. I’ve definitely been feeling a combination of these during this situation too. Coping with stress and anxiety can be intimidating, but I promise you that it can be very simple if you take it in small strides. 

Personally, I have been working out and trying to do 10 minutes of meditation everyday. With my experiences of anxiety, I seem to have this pit in my stomach. But meditation allows me to alleviate some of those stressful thoughts. 

 Meditation is a quick and simple task that could easily be incorporated into a businesswomen’s day-to-day life. It allows you to clear your head and stay mindful. It helps to reduce stress levels, alleviate anxiety, and forget about that long to do list you have to do. 

When you think of meditation you might associate it with it being a very spiritual task. However, if that’s not your “cup of tea” then try using an app to guide you. It does not have to be spiritual. Also remember to stay open minded to new tasks and experiences, you never know what’s going to work best for you. I am no expert when it comes to anxiety, but I do deal with it every single day. Meditation forces me to take the time out of my day to take a step back and just focus on my breath.  Which has made all the difference.

I like to follow these three steps when I meditate, and you can do these anywhere!

Step 1. Find a quiet, secluded place

Step 2. Close your eyes and focus on your DEEP breaths, inhale 1, exhale 2, inhale 3, exhale 4 etc.

OR you can simply focus on the movement of your breath

Step 3. Thoughts will go through your mind, allow them to but then bring yourself back to counting your breath. Don’t become upset by the thoughts let them flow then continue counting breaths

When I need that a little extra guidance I use apps like Headspace and Calm. They both have free trials to get you started. They are definitely worth checking them out!

 During these stressful times, it is important to take care of yourself first. I find that mobile apps are like training wheels, and once you get into the groove of it you can do it all by yourself. I promise you, it will change your life. I really wish there was some sort of magical formula to take all of your negative, stressful thoughts away. But the process and journey is different for everyone. Meditation does take practice, I do this once or twice a day for 10 minutes before bed. This is just what helps me calm down and get through those stressful days. I hope it can help you too

– Cassie Johnston

@misscassjohnston