Calming the Inner Critic

Here you can explore different exercises and techniques to help calm your inner critic, slowing down the negativity of your thoughts. Join us as we learn to navigate these moments with kindness and strength.

Grounding Exercises

 Use the 5-4-3-2-1 technique (5 things you see, 4 you feel, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, 1 you taste). This definetly helps for immediate thought calming. When counting it does help the brain focus on something else while calming intrusive thoughts, this one helps me take a step back, and really see what is happening as oppose to reacting in an unhealthy way.

Music/Nature Sounds/Aromatherapy

 Listening to calming music can lower stress hormones.

Using calming scents like lavender in candles or diffusers.

Mindfulness and Meditation

 Focus your attention on the present moment, observing thoughts without judgment rather than worrying about the past or future. This can include mindful walking or simply focusing on your breath.

Deep Breathing (Diaphragmatic Breathing)

Focus on slow, deep breaths, filling the belly rather than raising the shoulders. A good technique is inhaling slowly and exhaling for a longer count, such as inhaling to a count of 4 and exhaling to a count of 6.

Calming the Stress- Learning/Sharing/Healing

4 May 2026 17:07

Sometimes life gets too much, but we have to continue moving forward. There are moments when I have wanted to run very far away, only to discover that my emotions, thoughts, feelings need to be addressed head on, and avoiding them just does not work.

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Coping with Stress at Work

I wanted to highlight some tips and resources on taking care of stress in the workplace.

We can all get stressed with deadlines, blurred boundary lines, and forgetting to take care of ourselves. Here’s some great information to take along to the workplace.

 

Reflect and Adjust

 Take time to reflect on your work-life balance and be willing to adjust as needed. Regularly review what is working and what isn’t, and don’t hesitate to make changes to your routine or environment that can help reduce stress.

Remember, managing stress is crucial for both your mental and physical well-being. By implementing these tips and utilizing available resources, you can create a healthier and more productive workplace for yourself and those around you.

Recognize the Signs of Stress

The first step in managing stress is recognizing its signs. Common symptoms include irritability, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and even physical symptoms like headaches or muscle tension. Being aware of these signs can help you take action before stress becomes overwhelming.

Set Clear Boundaries

It’s important to set clear boundaries between work and personal life. Establish specific work hours and stick to them as much as possible. Communicate these boundaries with your colleagues to foster an understanding environment.

Prioritize Tasks

Learning to prioritize tasks can significantly reduce stress. Use tools like to-do lists or project management apps to keep track of deadlines. Focus on completing high-priority tasks first, which can provide a sense of accomplishment and motivate you throughout the day.

Take Regular Breaks

Don’t forget to take regular breaks throughout your workday. Short breaks help refresh your mind and boost productivity. Consider the Pomodoro Technique, where you work for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. This structured approach can help maintain your focus while reducing stress.

Practice Mindfulness and Deep Breathing

Incorporating mindfulness and deep breathing exercises into your daily routine can greatly alleviate stress. Take a few moments to close your eyes, breathe deeply, and focus on the present. Mindfulness techniques can help you manage your thoughts and emotions, reducing anxiety and enhancing focus.

Connect with Colleagues

Building strong relationships with colleagues can create a supportive work environment. Take the time to connect and share experiences, whether at the water cooler or during team activities. Strong connections can decrease feelings of isolation and stress.

Stay Physically Active

Regular physical activity can do wonders for your mental health. Aim to incorporate exercise into your daily routine, whether through a morning workout or a lunchtime walk. Physical activity releases endorphins that improve mood and reduce feelings of stress.