Years ago when I was suffering a bout of anxiety, I saw a counselor that advised me to close my eyes and think of a place that I feel most at peace, This technique was to help me feel calm. This is also a relaxation tool in yoga used to calm the mind and body. I have always come up with the same place, a park called the Park of Roses. When I close my eyes, I can see all the gorgeous colors of roses, I can smell roses and feel the warm sun on my skin. My family and I have walked and played in this park together for years. Recently one evening, my mother, daughter and I went for a walk through this beautiful park. I shared with my daughter how this was my peaceful place, when I felt stressed, I would close my eyes and see the roses and trees and would feel a sense of calm.
Do you have a favorite peaceful place real or imagined? A place that when you think of it, you feel safe, calm and relaxed? The next time you are feeling overwhelmed, close your eyes and “see” your peaceful place, take a few deep breaths, and notice if you feel a little calmer. Enjoy!
Yoga and Inspiration 