Mindfulness Archives - Executive Wellness and Culture Change Firm | Executive Wellness and Culture Change Firm | Executive Wellness and Culture Change Firm https://catonwellness.com/category/mindfulness/ Where Executive Wellness Meets Cultural Excellence Tue, 07 Feb 2023 00:44:24 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7 https://i0.wp.com/catonwellness.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/favicon.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Mindfulness Archives - Executive Wellness and Culture Change Firm | Executive Wellness and Culture Change Firm | Executive Wellness and Culture Change Firm https://catonwellness.com/category/mindfulness/ 32 32 166735790 Navigating Job Loss: 7 Tips for Coping with Stress and Finding a New Opportunity https://catonwellness.com/navigating-job-loss-7-tips-for-coping-with-stress-and-finding-a-new-opportunity/ Sat, 04 Feb 2023 15:00:38 +0000 https://catonwellness.com/?p=2487 Losing a job can be a difficult and overwhelming exper [...]

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Losing a job can be a difficult and overwhelming experience, and it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in this. Unfortunately, there are many people going through a similar process, and it’s normal to feel a range of emotions such as fear, anger, and frustration. It’s important to remember that this is not a personal failure, it’s a common experience that many people go through. It’s okay to take the time you need to adjust to this change and be kind to yourself during this process.

In this post, we’ll go over 7 tips that can help you cope with the stress of job loss and find your way to a new opportunity. From seeking emotional support to staying informed and connected, these tips will help you navigate this difficult time and find a new job that’s even better than the last. Remember that there are resources available to help you through this, and it’s important to take advantage of them. It’s okay to reach out for help, it’s okay to take time to process your emotions and it’s okay to be a little uncertain. We understand this is a difficult time, but with the right mindset and resources, you can come out of this even stronger and find a job that aligns with your passion and goals.

Many of us have a hard time staying focused and staying positive during uncertain times, but its important to give yourself space to process and then dive into some of these additional steps, starting with:

  1. Seek emotional support: One of the most important things you can do when dealing with job loss is to talk to someone about your feelings. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or therapist, talking to someone who can listen and offer support can help you process your emotions and cope with the stress. Joining a support group or online community can also be a great way to connect with others who are going through the same thing.
  2. Stay active: Exercise and physical activity are great ways to release endorphins, which can improve your mood and reduce stress. Even if you’re feeling down, make sure to get up and move around for at least 30 minutes a day. Whether it’s going for a walk, doing yoga, or hitting the gym, staying active can help you stay positive and focused.
  3. Take care of yourself: This one is super important! Eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can help reduce stress levels. It’s also important to make time for activities that you enjoy, whether it’s reading, watching your favorite shows, or listening to music. Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally can help you stay strong and focused as you search for a new job.
  4. Stay informed and connected: Keeping abreast of the latest job market trends and networking with other professionals in your field can help you stay informed and connected, which can provide a sense of control and hope. Sign up for job alerts, attend networking events, and keep your LinkedIn profile up to date.
  5. Make a plan: Make a plan to manage your finances and create a budget. Look for ways to reduce expenses and increase income, if possible. It’s important to be proactive about your finances and not let stress and worry about money control you.
  6. Look into available resources: Many states have unemployment benefits and other resources that can help people who have lost their jobs. Look into what resources are available to you and apply for them if you are eligible. You can also look into other forms of assistance such as food banks or housing assistance.
  7. Consider retraining or up-skilling: If your job has been impacted by automation or other technological advancements, consider looking into retraining or up-skilling programs that can help you acquire new skills that are in demand. This is a great way to increase your chances of finding a new job and staying competitive in the job market.

It’s vital to keep in mind that losing a job is not a sign of personal failure despite the fact that it might be a difficult and emotional event. This transition may cause emotions of uneasiness, tension, and apprehension, but with the appropriate attitude, resources, and support, you can get through this trying time and emerge even stronger.

It’s worth mentioning this again, but during this transition, it’s critical to practice self-kindness. Give yourself time to acclimate and think about the change. While it’s acceptable to experience feelings of stress, sadness, or annoyance, it’s also important to prioritize relaxation, self-care, and finding joy in the little things. Keep your sphere of influence positive and uplifting, and don’t be hesitant to ask for assistance if you need it.

There is light at the end of the tunnel; with the correct tools, you may locate a new opportunity that fits with your objectives, principles, and interests. To develop your talents, widen your network, and establish connections with prospective employers, use job search engines, job boards, professional networking organizations, and career counseling. It’s important to keep in mind that while the search for a new career may not be simple, with perseverance, drive, and the correct tools, you can find a road that leads to success and pleasure.

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Don’t Give Up on Your New Year’s Resolutions: Strategies for Staying Committed and Achieving Success https://catonwellness.com/stay-on-track-to-achieving-your-new-years-resolutions/ Sun, 29 Jan 2023 03:59:18 +0000 https://catonwellness.com/?p=2474 The start of a new year often brings with it a renewed [...]

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The start of a new year often brings with it a renewed sense of motivation and a desire to make positive changes in our lives. However, for many of us, this motivation can quickly fizzle out as we struggle to meet our New Year’s resolutions and goals. The “New Year, New Me” mentality can lead us to set unrealistic expectations for ourselves and set ourselves up for disappointment and failure.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. By setting realistic and achievable goals and breaking them down into smaller, manageable steps, we can make progress and improve our chances of success.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when setting goals is to make sure they are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). This means that your goals should be specific enough so you know exactly what you want to achieve, measurable so you can track your progress, achievable so you don’t set yourself up for failure, relevant to your values and time-bound so you have a deadline to work towards.

For example, instead of setting a vague goal like “lose weight,” set a specific goal like “lose 10 pounds in 3 months by exercising for 30 minutes, 5 days a week and following a healthy diet.” This goal is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.

Another important step in achieving your goals is to break them down into smaller, manageable steps. This will make it less overwhelming and more achievable. For example, if your goal is to run a marathon, you can break it down into smaller steps like:

  • Starting with a brisk walk for 30 minutes, 3 times a week
  • Gradually increasing your running time and distance over time
  • Incorporating strength and flexibility training
  • Finding a training plan or joining a running group for accountability and support

It’s also important to keep in mind that progress, not perfection, is what’s important. Be kind and compassionate with yourself, and celebrate small wins along the way. For example, if you’ve been working towards running a marathon, don’t get discouraged if you miss a training day or don’t meet your time goals. Instead, focus on your progress and celebrate the small wins, like running for longer distances or feeling stronger and more energized.

Reflecting on what you want to achieve, why you want to achieve it, and how it will make you feel once you’ve reached it can also help you stay focused and motivated. When you understand the why behind your goals, it will be easier to stay motivated and push through the tough times.

Another key aspect of achieving your goals is to remember that change is a process, not an event. It takes time and effort to make lasting changes and it’s important to be patient with yourself and not give up if you encounter setbacks. Life happens, and plans change. Be flexible and adjust your goals and plan accordingly. Don’t beat yourself up if you miss a deadline or slip up, instead focus on getting back on track.

Lastly, don’t focus on the idea of becoming a completely new person, focus on becoming the best version of yourself. Embrace your strengths, work on your weaknesses, and focus on self-improvement. When you focus on self-improvement, you’ll find that you’re more satisfied with yourself and your life.

It’s important to remember that achieving your goals is not a one-time event, it’s a journey. And like any journey, it will have its ups and downs. But with the right mindset and approach, you can make progress and achieve your goals.

So, if you’re struggling to meet your New Year’s resolutions and goals, don’t give up. Just remember, by setting SMART goals, tracking your progress, and practicing self-compassion and self-motivation, you can make meaningful and lasting changes in your life. Remember, progress is not always linear, and setbacks are a normal part of the process. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you slip up, and don’t give up on your goals. Keep pushing forward and stay committed to your resolutions. It may take time, but with perseverance and determination, you can achieve your goals and make this year one of positive change.

If you’re ready to take your goal setting to the next level, consider picking up a copy our best-selling workbook, “Get Clear: A Mindfulness Workbook.” We discuss setting smart goals in it and leave room for you to make your own. This workbook’s intensive activities, inspiring quotes, and thought-provoking writing prompts can all help you get past feelings of being stuck, lost, or stressed. Perfect for those seeking more inner calm and clarity. Order your copy today and start your journey towards a clearer, more mindful life.

Get Your Copy Here

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How To Find The Right Meditation Practice For You https://catonwellness.com/how-to-find-the-right-meditation-practice-for-you/ Fri, 29 Jan 2021 22:08:52 +0000 https://catonwellness.com/?p=2295 Many people believe that the only way to meditate is to [...]

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Many people believe that the only way to meditate is to sit in one spot and focus on their breath or to try not to think of anything at all. Many of us enter into a meditation practice wanting to experience all of the great benefits that it has to offer but also not knowing exactly what to do or what the real goal is.

The largest part of meditation is mindfulness which is the practice of being fully immersed in the present moment while not losing yourself in the thoughts of the ego. In its most simple form the word ego means “I”. For the most part throughout the day our minds are racing with thoughts of the ego “I should have…”, “I will do..”, or “I am”. Any thoughts of I, me, mine are signs of our egos being in control of our minds. Meditation is about being fully present in the current moment here and now. Meditation allows you to release your feelings (good or bad) about the past and the future without judging the thoughts or ourselves for thinking them.

So now with this understanding of meditation what is the best way to practice?

You have the power to choose what mediation practice is right for you. There are many options including some that may not be on the list below. The point is we should all choose something that resonates with our soul the best. No two people are alike and no two people will have the same meditation experiences.

The key is mindfulness. Whatever practice that you choose be fully present of the here and now. Think about being mindful of your muscles as they move or if you are sitting being mindful of the stillness. Think about being mindful of your feet against the floor, or the air against your skin. Notice the various parts of your body that are often forgotten about such as your hips, elbows, or cheeks. Even your breathing, heartbeat, and other inner sensations will be better noticed when you are mindful of the body. If you are completing a task notice the things around you as you feel the sensation of objects that you come into contact, the  visual details of what your seeing and every sensation of any outside source. Be mindful, be present.

The more you practice meditation the skill of mindfulness will become a habit and will translate to more and more areas of your life. This can help you connect to your surroundings and other people on a higher level. This practice can help to:

  • Relieve stress
  • Improve sleep
  • Release anger
  • Decrease the feeling of loneliness
  • Decrease symptoms of  depression
  • Reduce anxiety
  • Improve confidence.
  • Promotes happiness
  • Promotes oneness
  • Promotes kindness (to others and ourselves)
  • Promotes love & peace
  • Creates a sense of ease & clarity

Below is a list of practices that are commonly used as meditation practices

Movement Meditation

This can include:

  • Walking
  • Running
  • Yoga
  • Qigong
  • Strength Training
  • Cooking
  • Dancing

Any movement where you practice mindfulness would be perfect.

Mantra Meditation

Mantra meditation uses a repetitive sound, word or phrase to clear the mind. A popular sound commonly used is “Om.” This can be spoken out loud or in your mind. This type of meditation can be used anywhere such as in your car while in traffic, on the train, in a crowded room, or in a quiet space.

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

Reflection Meditation

Reflection meditation is the practice of focusing your mind on a prayer, a spiritual concept or an idea. Reflection and focus on this will guide you to a deeper connection with yourself, your God or universe.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

Music Meditation

The practice of music meditation involves listening to the music piece of your choice. This piece of music should be something that you feel connects with your soul, preferably without lyrics. It may be helpful to create a playlist of music that you connect deeply with. Bring your attention to the present moment (here and now), the sound of the music, and the feelings in your body that the music creates physically and emotionally.

Photo by Spencer Selover from Pexels

Breathing Meditation

Breathing meditation could be as simple as observing your breath or could involve focusing on a specific breathing pattern. Examples would be:

Simple focused breathing

  1. Take a gentle breath into your nose
  2. Pause your breath (hold the inhale)
  3. Take a gentle breath out of your nose
  4. Pause your breath (hold the exhale)
  5. Repeat for your desired time

4 Count Breathing

  1. Inhale gently through your nose for a count of 4
  2. Exhale gently through your nose for a count of 4
  3. Repeat for your desired time

Abdominal Breathing

  1. Place one hand on your chest and the other onto your stomach
  2. Take a deep breath in through the nose
  3. Feel your hand on your stomach move as you inflate your diaphragm with air during your inhale
  4. Gently release the breath through your nose
  5. Repeat for your desired time

Breath of Fire

  1. Start by gently inhaling then starting your first round of breath of fire by contracting the diaphragm in rapidly and exhaling the air through the nose
  2. Immediately follow the exhale with a rapid inhale by extending the diaphragm down expanding the ribs. This breath should feel more like a relaxation from the exhale.
  3. Aim for 2-3 breaths per cycle
  4. Being with 1-2 minutes per round and work your way up to 10 minutes

Alternate Nostril Breathing

  1. Plug your right nostril with your right thumb
  2. Take a deep breath through the left nostril
  3. Pause your breath
  4. Remove your thumb from your right nostril and plug your left nostril with your ring finger
  5. Gently exhale through your right nostril
  6. Gently inhale through your right nostril
  7. Repeat for your desired time

4-7-8  Breathing

  1. Gently inhale through your nose for a count of four
  2. Pause your breath for a count of seven
  3. Exhale deeply and completely for a count of eight
  4. Repeat for your desired time

Kapalabhati Breath

  1. Breath in your nose very slowly
  2. Quickly let out a powerful exhale from your diaphragm
  3. Repeat for your desired time
Photo by nappy from Pexels

Visual Meditation

Visual meditation is the practice of using your sense of sight to focus your consciousness. One way to do this is to focus on a mental image of a color, symbol, object, place, or situation. Another way to do this is to gaze upon a fixed object such as a candle flame, a tree or leaf, or a statue of a deity.

So as you can see there are so many ways to practice meditation. Explore as many techniques as you need to to find the one that connects with you the most. After you have found one start by practicing this technique as little as 2 minutes a day and work yourself up to practicing 20 minutes a day or more if desired. You will find that including this into your daily lifestyle will have more benefits than I can describe.

Note: Originally posted via Abori Well

Courtney Hall

About The Author

Courtney Hall is a Tristate area based Licensed Athletic Trainer, NSCA Certified Personal Trainer, Nutrition Therapy Practitioner, and Certified Yoga Instructor. She holds a Master of Science in Athletic Training from Florida International University and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology from Rutgers University. She is the founder of wellness brand, AboriWell. AboriWell uses current and ancestral approaches to movement, nutrition and lifestyle to optimize human health.

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