Relaxation

Relaxation and Breathing

I have had many bereaved families share with me their thoughts and feelings after the loss of their precious baby or babies.

One of the many things that we have a talked a lot about is how it is hard to sleep and the many thoughts running through your mind. How not getting enough rest and sleep can impact on the days ahead you are trying to face. We have also talked a lot about feeling anxious and having trouble finding the patience to do the things that used to come so easily.

I wanted to share with you all very useful and helpful relaxation technique. Something that you can call upon if you are having trouble sleeping or if you are struggling with feeling anxious about going or being places that never used to bother you. Also finding you haven't got the patience you did have and are looking for ways to cope and face the time ahead.

Find a quiet comfortable place
If you like music play something that is soft and soothing
Try to clear your mind.
Don't think of anything that is going on..

breathe slow and deep

let your self sink into the bed/lounge where ever you are

keep breathing

breath in & squeeze your toes
breathe out & release
do this again

breathe in & squeeze the muscles in your leg
breathe out & release

repeat

breathe in & squeeze the muscles in your bottom
breathe out & release

repeat

keep doing this all the way up your body, your back, your belly, your shoulders right down to your finger tips

then keep breathing

You will be surprised how clear your mind has become. If you are having trouble sleeping and are doing this as you have gone off to bed, you will find you can slowly relax in to a nice deep sleep.. The thoughts and feelings are still there you've just given yourself time to rest.

If you are doing this because you are feeling anxious or had a very difficult day and or something has happened that you aren't finding you have the patience to deal with, then try giving yourself some time just for you to take a moment to try to relax. You will find it may help to have cleared your mind enough to give you a different perspective, to feel ready to try it again or to feel a bit better with dealing with how hard it was..


Quick Breathing exercise
If you don't have the time to do the above technique here is another quick breathing technique

Breathe in & count to 3 in your mind
Breathe out & count to 3 in your mind

Repeat this for as long as you need.

Both of these techniques may not work for everyone and may not bring the same results for everyone but I wanted to share them with you and do hope they will be helpful for you in one way or another..
Warm wishes

Trudi Penrose-Starr Dip. Prof. Couns. (Grief and Loss).

TLC offers professional counselling and a free call bereavement support line.

Please know you are most welcome to contact Trudi & Jaylee anytime.