Wellness Now: Your Oasis in a Hectic Day

L ike so many, I was riveted by the plight of the 12 boys and their soccer coach trapped in the cave in Thailand. Listening to news reports, it appeared hopeless. How could there possibly be a good outcome with so many challenges and obstacles, especially after a trained diver lost his life trying to save them? How did they not panic during those excruciating 18 days? When, miraculously and thankfully, they were all rescued, we learned how they kept calm. Meditation . 

May you be well, Olivia (aka, Ohm) Relaxation Coach, Workshop Facilitator & Author

Keep Calm...and Meditate

Their 25-year-old coach Ekkapol Chantawong, a former Buddhist monk trained in meditation, taught the boys, age 11-16, how to meditate to stay calm and conserve their energy. The mother of one of the boys said, "Look at how calm they were sitting there waiting. No one was crying...it was astonishing," We can all learn from the boys and tap into the "well of calm" that lies within. ( Click here to see a heartwarming video of the boys after they were rescued.)

Getting to Calm We all have moments when we may feel trapped (hopefully, not literally!), fearful, anxious, or overwhelmed. The first step is to become aware of the feeling and label it. For instance, "I feel afraid." Being able to acknowledge the emotion helps us observe what is happening in our mind without getting carried away by it. Next, focus on the breath. Breathe in safety, breathe out fear; inhale peace, exhale anxiety. Repeat this calming breath for as long as you like. When your mind wanders - and it will - return to the breath. Now, focus on that inner place of peace that exists within. Silently affirm: “All is well. All will be well.”

"PEACE. It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart." - Unknown

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