Calming Rest

Frustration often comes from the smallest thing…a missing sock…a broken toy…sleeping a few minutes too late.  When this is combined with the larger issues each of us faces during the day, it can mount until a veritable avalanche of frustration cascades through our life.  Dealing with this frustration can often be difficult, especially when we have roles to play in the workplace and with our family.  Setting aside expectations and trying to calm yourself gets pushed to the back burner in favor of soccer practices and the morning meetings.

From a total health point of view, it is essential that we get down time in our lives.  As a biological machine, running full pace will burn us out.  This leads to sickness, emotional issues, and often a complete breakdown.  Taking time to just be can be tricky, especially in a fast-paced world.  It is something that must be done though.  Starting with a few minutes before bed to calm ourselves and meditate for a few moments is a start.  Setting aside time on a daily or even weekly basis to sit or walk or lie down and calm ourselves can give the much needed rest to physical, mental, and emotional facilities.

This down time can start small.  Some professionals suggest the drive time either on the way to or from work.  While this may work for some people, the outside distractions as well as the increasing frustration of driving may make it so that relaxation and calming quickly become a raging fit.  A few minutes at night before bed, some time in a garden, reading a book…any number of activities can be meditative in nature and help to release that frustration.   

Any number of books have been written on releasing this frustration.  Each one shows a different path.  It is important to realize though that what works for one may not work for another.  While studying these may give some hint of map, finding your own way may tender better results.  Whatever works though, true rest and a calming moment are essential.