The STOP method is a useful tool for calming and relaxing your mind.

You can teach yourself to stop what you are doing and take a moment, to breathe and observe your thoughts. Controlling your breathing when feeling anxious or overwhelmed in situations, will help you to feel calmer and more in control of your behaviour.

Going a wee bit further, you could imagine a large red STOP sign just like the one pictured above and use this when thinking through what the acronym STOP actually represents in this form of practice.

Use the STOP method if your feel like your thoughts are chaotic, out of control or you feel overwhelmed:

The S stands for Stop what you are doing.

The T stands for Take a breath. A few deep breaths to calm yourself. Take two minutes or more if needed.

The O stands for Observing your thoughts and feelings. Wonder what is causing you to become anxious or out of control.

The P stands for Proceeding with something that can support you in the moment. Is there someone who can listen to your concerns? Have a drink of coffee/water.

When your mind becomes calmer through using the STOP method, your ability to think clearer will increase and eventually, you will be able to carry on as before.

I encourage my clients to use this method by visualising and memorising the letters, so they are able to recall seeing the big red sign and knowing the meaning of the letters, when in a state of extreme anxiety or feeling overwhelmed.

It is one of these easy to remember ‘quick fixes’ I would recommend for anyone to learn. You never know when it may be useful in life.

Thanks for sharing this with me.

Steve