Find Your Peaceful, Happy Place

We all need a break from time to time. The winter can feel long, dark and cold, and we all face varying degrees of stressors in our lives.  Removing ourselves, even briefly, from stressors can be beneficial to our minds and bodies.  I know that a trip to a warm, sunny vacation spot may be the answer for some but is just not possible for everyone.  What if you could take a vacation of sorts in your mind?

Our imaginations can be wonderful places.  Have you ever been hungry and imagined that favorite dish that you’re anticipating having for dinner and can almost taste it and smell those enticing aromas?  Have you longed for time spent with that good friend who always listens and cares for you in such a way that you can totally be yourself and be at peace?  Can you picture their face, see their smile, hear the unique notes of their laughter?  Did it bring up any positive emotions or feelings?  Did I hear you sigh contentedly and see you smile as you pictured being in their presence? That’s the power of guided imagery.

Where is a place where you have felt peaceful, calm, and safe and where you would enjoy escaping?  Is it a warm, sunny beach; a cool, lush mountain; or that place where your family and friends gather to connect.  Put yourself in a quiet and comfortable place.  Close your eyes, allow your body to relax, focus on breathing slowly and deeply in through your nose and out through your mouth.  Then let your senses guide you to your peaceful place.  Be as descriptive as possible and note what you see, hear, touch, smell, and taste there.  Are you feeling relaxed or lighter?  Those are often the feeling words I hear when doing this exercise with my clients.  Allow yourself to sit in that calm, enjoyable space and enjoy the time away.  Then give your place a name and travel there whenever you need a break and would like to restore some calm to your mind and body.