It’s wild out there right now. It’s a time of uncertainties and countless, unprecedented changes that makes it tough for any of us to adapt and stay calm. We are all worried. Worried about ourselves, our friends, families, and communities, and our futures—amongst a multitude other concerns. In moments like these, it’s essential for us each to take time to build resiliency for the many stressors of modernity that are simply out of our control. Nature-based, guided imagery is a proven strategy for reducing anxiety symptoms, limiting the harmful effects of stress on our minds and bodies, and elevating our immune response by increasing our natural-killer cells. Now, those seem like exactly the kinds of boosts we’re seeking right now. Some of us have been isolated from the horses and the quiet retreat of the farm during this difficult time when their support would so benefit us all. So, please consider taking just 10 minutes today to engage your imagination and senses for an equine, guided-imagery escape. You may return to this mindfulness practice whenever you need a pause as we all try to our best to move within an ever-shifting world moment by moment. Take care. -EE
P.S. Guided imagery is a rather personal experience. I encourage you to find the voice (I’m a sucker for an Australian) and scenery (mountains for me!) that you find most pleasing. Try out the free app Insight Timer for a slew of guided practices and the Calm app offers an amazing Wild Ponies of Chincoteague sleep story. Try on a couple for your daily pause and post below what works for you.
Note: This article is not clinical counseling or psychotherapy and it is not intended to treat any mental-health condition. The commentary offered in this blog may not be appropriate for every person depending on their current needs and individual systems. Please consult a physician or mental-health clinician to seek care for your specific needs and goals. If you are experiencing a medical or behavioral health emergency, please immediately call 911 or present to emergency department, as soon as possible.