Sadly,
many of us accept a stressed state as normal, and have become used to operating
in a state of overload, surrounded by others who are feeling similarly. In the
workplace multi-tasking is often not only encouraged by employers, but is
expected; considered erroneously to be a sign of effective working. In reality,
whilst staff may be busy, they are often less effective than they seem. The
effect of stress in the workplace is well documented and forward-thinking
employers are introducing Mindfulness programmes for staff, but this is far
from widespread.
Learning
Mindfulness can benefit people in all areas of their life, as stress and
over-thinking are rarely practises confined to the workplace. Using Mindfulness
techniques to tune out ‘noise’ and focus on what’s important can really improve
overall well-being. Research has shown that even short courses in Mindfulness
can measurably reduce stress, improve mental clarity and increase creativity.
Clients who have learned very simple Mindfulness techniques with me have reported
a reduction in anxiety, improved sleep and generally feel happier.
Despite
frequent mentions in the media, there are some misconceptions about Mindfulness.
Sometimes portrayed as a relaxation technique, Mindfulness, which has its roots
in Buddhist meditation, is about acceptance, rather than relaxation. Acceptance
brings with it a calmer, quieter state of mind, which is something that many seek.
I have
been teaching Mindfulness techniques for many years, historically with pregnant
women as an easy self-hypnosis routine, and in recent years with stressed and
anxious clients, those who ‘over-think’ or ‘catastrophise’. Whilst Mindfulness
has become extremely popular recently, it’s been around for a very long time
and to describe it (as many people do) as a buzzword is to trivialise its
value. Many clients who book with me for hypnotherapy for stress reduction,
anxiety or insomnia are pleased to learn some easy techniques that they can
utilise to prevent or manage stressful situations.
