Practicing the S.T.O.P Technique

TODAY'S GOAL:  you begin a daily practice of the S.T.O.P technique, to help recognize (without judgement) your needs in the present moment. 

Like many of us, I find myself trying to juggle a handful of daily tasks. For example: 

• Staying focused and disciplined on my exercise and nutrition plan à la Mendy Lynn, my trainer. Check out Mendy's business Chic Clique Fitness! 
• Taking two fantastic strategic communication classes
• Working full time
• Getting prepared for the Miss Leavenworth/Wooded Hills pageant...which I am SO excited for!
• Networking and Searching for internships in PR/Strategic Communications
• Finding acting jobs 

All of the above are things that I love doing, but sometimes I feel the weight of those tasks and find stress creeping in. It's in those moments that mindfulness plays a key role in my sanity. 

Below is a graphic of the S.T.O.P technique, told to me by Lisa Pinsker, MA, a wonderful teacher of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) in Kansas City. 

The S.T.O.P technique is simple and only takes about 30 seconds. You can practice it: 

1. When you wake up
2. Before you eat
3. Right after sitting down to work
4. Before you sleep
5. When you feel yourself getting tense/stressed.

Take the opportunity to find moments of stillness in your day. Perhaps cultivate those moments by setting 'Reminders' for yourself on your phone. 

By taking the time to S.T.O.P and focus on our emotions, thoughts and body, we can learn how to support ourselves in that particular moment without judgement. 

That might be by taking a walk, stretching, reading a book or listening to your favorite song. 
There is no right or wrong. Just listen and focus with kindness on the moment. No judgement needed. 

Give it try!!

TODAY'S GOAL:  you begin a daily practice of the S.T.O.P technique, to help recognize (without judgement) your needs in the present moment. 

Your hearts know in silence the secrets of the days and the nights.
The Prophet, Kahlil Gibran