The art of saying STOP - learn how to completely disconnect from problems and responsibilities

18 May 2021 Estimated time: ~2 min.

To say YES to you, sometimes you need to say NO to others. Whether we are talking about people or activities, it is important to know how to take distance to protect ourselves, without harming, as much as possible, the feelings of those around us.

A STOP said at the right time is a liberating gift that we make to ourselves, perhaps in a moment of great tension at work or in a heated discussion with someone. The NO that is not said in time gathers around him frustrations, resentments, desires for revenge or giving up. Of course, it is indeed an art to say a STOP that is well received by those to whom it is addressed. But before you worry about how they will feel, think of yourself first. And this is not selfishness. It is self-respect, it is the need to listen to your mind, soul and body and to honor them accordingly.

If we talk, for example, about a situation at work, when you are overwhelmed by projects, deadlines, phones ringing, everyone wants something from you and you feel that you will soon crash, a break of a few minutes can save your day and even your job.

Breath in breath out...

Announce as politely as possible that you need a few minutes, if you are in a situation where you have to justify the break. Remember that some people can take advantage of your kindness if you do not draw clear boundaries. And even if you are your own boss, allow yourself a few minutes of total disconnection from problems and responsibilities when you feel you can’t handle it anymore!

The specialists established, in fact, that every 90 minutes it is recommended to take a 15-minute break. Thus, the next 90 minutes will be more productive.

Give yourself time to breathe, maybe go out for a few minutes or take a short walk. The brain will be better oxygenated, the muscles relax and you can return to the office calmer and in peace.

Educate your mind not to think about anything!

Tens and hundreds of thoughts run through our minds daily, sometimes overwhelming and disorganized, and a short meditation of relaxation can bring order to our minds. Sit on your back, in bed or in a more relaxed position, if you are at the office, close your eyes and visualize a clear, blue sky, covered by fluffy clouds, moving. Cancel any thought that comes to ruin the moment of peace and quiet and look at the sky in your mind for a few minutes.

Later you can try some stretching exercises, which will relax your muscles and help you relax.

If you can, it would be ideal to light a scented candle or an aromatherapy lamp. The smell of lavender calms the nervous system and induces a state of calm.