Letting things go

[pumpkinpotpie]

I’m really struggling with feelings of sadness today. I have had a few small silly things happen that I can’t stop thinking about and ruminating on. Really nothing huge - I made a mistake that cost me £30. I had an uncomfortable conversation (not quite an argument but a bit tense) with a stranger. That kind of thing. All over now.

I won’t go into detail but I need to work out how to get this heavy feeling off my chest and move on from thinking about not very nice situations that are over now!!

Does anyone have any tips?

Yes. Say to yourself ‘loosen and accept’. As you say it, relax your body (especially your abdominal muscles). Whenever the difficult thought pops back, do the same again ‘loosen and accept’, and keep going on with whatever you’re doing.

This comes from the work of Dr Claire Weekes, a pioneer in treating anxiety. It takes practice, but it works. I highly recommend her books and especially her audiobooks.

It’s possible that you need more support or that there are other things going on, but in the meantime, this technique is easy to remember, can’t do any harm, and can be used any time you feel stressed, self-critical, or keep having difficult thoughts. It really works.

Thank you! That does feel like it’s helping.