Techniques to Practise When You Feel Life Is Becoming a Little Overwhelming

At a glance:

• When feeling overwhelmed, take a moment to pause, practice deep breathing, and regain control of your emotions.
• Prioritise tasks and break them down into smaller, manageable steps to reduce stress and gain a sense of progress.
• Seek support from trusted individuals, engage in self-care activities, and consider professional help if overwhelm persists.

Life can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster ride with ups and downs. There may be moments when you feel overwhelmed and like everything is spinning out of control. During these times, it’s important to have techniques and strategies to help you regain balance and perspective. In this article, we will explore some practical techniques you can practise when you feel overwhelmed with life.

Take a Deep Breath and Pause

When life becomes overwhelming, it’s crucial to take a step back and give yourself a moment to breathe. Deep breathing exercises can help calm your mind and relax your body. Close your eyes, take a deep breath through your nose, hold it for a few seconds, and slowly exhale through your mouth. Repeat this several times, focusing on each breath. This simple practice can help you reset and regain a sense of control.

Prioritise and Break It Down

When you’re overwhelmed, it’s easy to feel like everything needs to be done simultaneously. However, trying to tackle everything simultaneously can increase stress and make it harder to accomplish anything. Instead, take a moment to prioritise your tasks and break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. Focus on completing one task at a time before moving on to the next. This approach can help you regain a sense of progress and accomplishment.

Reach Out for Support

Don’t hesitate to contact friends, family, or a trusted confidant when you feel overwhelmed. Talking about your feelings and concerns with someone you trust can provide much-needed support and perspective. They may offer helpful advice or lend a listening ear. Sometimes, verbalising your worries can help lighten the burden and provide clarity.

Practise Self-Care

Self-care is essential for maintaining balance and well-being, especially during overwhelming times. Take time to engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. This could include exercise, taking a hot bath, practising meditation or mindfulness, reading a book, or enjoying a hobby. Nurturing your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is crucial for handling life’s challenges with resilience.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

If feelings of overwhelm persist and begin to affect your daily life and functioning, it may be beneficial to seek professional help. A therapist or counsellor can provide guidance and support in managing stress and overwhelming emotions. They can help you develop coping strategies, gain insights, and work through any underlying issues contributing to your overwhelm.

Conclusion

Feeling overwhelmed with life is a common experience, but it’s important to remember that you have the power to regain control. By implementing these techniques—taking a deep breath and pausing, prioritising and breaking tasks down, reaching out for support, practising self-care, and seeking professional help if needed—you can navigate overwhelming periods with greater resilience and a sense of calm. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and care for yourself.

Consider working with a professional life coach if you’re looking for additional guidance and support to manage life’s overwhelming moments.