S.T.O.P.

One of my favorite, go-to mindfulness practices that builds resilience and decreases reactivity is called S.TO.P. It’s a simple practice that you can use in the moment as you notice your emotions and reactivity rising. Or, you can use it after you notice a moment of reactivity, as a way to reflect, gain more insight and build resilience surrounding highly charged events and our conditional response. Try it out now using our guided meditation or on your own to build awareness, expand perspective and to manage reactivity.

Here are the steps:

S = Stop. The Sacred Pause when you notice reactivity. Give yourself a quick time-out.
T = Take a Breath. Focus on the breath, completely. If time permits, take a few more breaths and just notice the sensation of breathing in the body.
O = Observe. With curiosity, kindness and no judgement. What physical sensations do you notice in your body? Just notice. Ask yourself, “What’s the story here for me? Are there others involved, and if so, if I step into their shoes…what may their story be? Is there context in this situation that would be helpful to consider?”
P = Proceed. What would be a supportive response? What response would best serve you? Others? The situation? If the moment has passed, is there an additional response now that would support?

Give it a try, in different situations. It is a practice and what we practice grows stronger. And if you’d like to practice building resilience even more, consider joining us for our Resilience & Prosperity Retreat for Women coming up in April.

Mindfully yours,
Ashley