B R E AT H E
O F F S E T. T H A N K Y O U T O J O M A R C H A N T, A U T H O R O F C U R E ; A N D S U S A N K R A U S S W H I T B O U R N E , P R O F E S S O R O F P S Y C H O LO G I C A L A N D B R A I N S C I E N C E S AT T H E U N I V E R S I T Y O F M A S S A C H U S E T T S , A M H E R S T.
When your inner critic gets too loud, it turns on the stress response and can make you feel insecure or overwhelmed. Learning to relax that critical voice can help in these moments. As you become aware of the harsh words, locate the spots in your body where you feel tension. You might notice tightening in your stomach, your shoulders, or your jaw. Place your hand in the middle of your chest and enjoy its warm, gentle weight amidst the discomfort of self-judgment. Let your breath come and meet this place from the inside. Then find something nice to say to yourself. In other words, interrupt the critical tirade with some kindness. If you can’t quite believe these kind words, say other words that you do believe. Stay with this till you feel your body and mind become calm and you can be more present with yourself and others.
THIS MONTH’S EXPERT M A R GA R E T T OW N S E N D is a certified breathwork and Hakomi practitioner in the Portland, Oregon, area. She has taught for 25 years, blending her training in shiatsu, reiki, qigong, yoga, and other disciplines. Find her at thelivingbreath.com.
Photograph by Maura McEvoy
FEBRUARY 2016
52
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