A collaboration with Dr Sthiradeva Hubbard a mindfullness and mediation coach
Moving house, buying a new property, or dealing with remortgaging can be some of the most stressful experiences in life. With countless tasks to juggle and decisions to make, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, incorporating mindfulness techniques into your routine can help you manage stress and find balance during this hectic time. Today, I'm collaborating with Dr Sthiradeva Hubbard, a mindfulness and meditation coach from Miatri Mindfullness, to share practical tips that can help you cope.
Breathing is something we do every day without thinking, yet it holds the key to releasing stress and anxiety. One of my favourite breathing techniques involves using your fingers. Hold one hand out in front of you and use the index finger of your other hand to gently "draw" up and down each finger. Breathe in as you draw up, and breathe out as you draw down. This mindful movement anchors your attention and calms your mind.
When overthinking starts to take over, a great way to regain focus is to engage your senses. Take a moment to pause and do the following: out loud, name five things you can see around you, four things you can hear, three things you can feel, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This simple exercise helps shift your attention away from racing thoughts and brings you back to the present moment, creating a sense of calm.
When your mind is racing with thoughts about moving, it can be tough to get a good night’s sleep. If you find yourself worrying or catastrophising at night, try jotting down your concerns before bed. This simple act can help you set aside those thoughts until morning. For an extra sleep aid, run through the alphabet in your mind, thinking of words in a specific category (like fruits or animals) that begin with each letter. This fun distraction can help lull you into a peaceful slumber.
Remember, a problem shared is a problem halved. It’s always a good idea to talk through your concerns with someone you trust. Your adviser at GoGreen is there to support you every step of the way, providing guidance and reassurance during this transition.
As you navigate the stresses of moving or remortgaging, be patient and kind to yourself. Acknowledge that your feelings are valid and take time to reflect on them. Utilizing the mindfulness techniques we've discussed can help you better manage your emotions and find peace amid the chaos.
Robert shares an extract from Dr. Ellen Vora’s book, The Anatomy of Anxiety: Understanding and Overcoming the Body's Fear Response, she writes, “Even when we cut out the coffee and heal the gut, we will still be left with a certain amount of anxiety. This anxiety arises from the inherent fragility of life, but it also offers us the strength of our convictions. When life feels misaligned with your values or capabilities, anxiety can act as a critical indicator that change is needed. Instead of viewing anxiety solely as a negative emotion, consider it a signal urging you to pay attention. This awareness can guide you toward actions that align with your purpose and lead to a more fulfilling life."
As you embark on your journey of buying, building, moving, or remortgaging, remember that mindfulness can be a powerful ally. By incorporating breathing techniques, grounding through your senses, establishing healthy sleep habits, communicating your concerns, and practicing self-compassion, you can navigate this stressful time with greater ease and clarity.
If you found these tips helpful and want to learn more about mindfulness, feel free to reach out to Sthiradeva at Sthiradeva@gmail.com.
Thank you for reading!
Sarah and Sthiradeva
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