Anxiety
Anxiety is a worry about future events, it is what we feel when we are worried, tense or afraid. It is a natural human response when we perceive that we are under threat.  However, for some people this feeling can persist and become a negative cycle of anxiety and stress.

There are some self-help techniques that can help to manage how we are feeling;

• Talk to someone you trust – sharing your thoughts and feelings can help you to make sense of your experiences - “a trouble shared is a trouble halved”.
• Breathing exercises – try and find a rectangle wherever you are; a window frame, a door, a picture frame – anything that is a rectangle shape. Breathe in on the short side; breathe out on the long side. Try and do this at least twice a day for 5 minutes at a time.
• Become mindful – try and be 'in the moment'. Sometimes out thoughts of what might happen become overwhelming. Take a moment to shift your focus; look at nature – the sky, trees, flowers or something you find interesting or comforting. Really notice the details, the colour, the movements, the shapes, try and use all your senses.
• Try and be active – this does not have to be too strenuous; 20 minutes of light exercise (just enough to raise your heart rate) can boost your feel good hormones.
• Consider complimentary therapies – yoga, meditation, reflexology, aromatherapy and hypnotherapy.

Solution focused hypnotherapy does not focus on what has happened in the past but instead looks at your present situation and your future. This can really benefit your thought processes and reduce anxiety.

New Year, New You.

This is the beginning of a new year. The perfect time to make positive changes for your future.

Here are a few tips to get January off to a great start;

• Every night before bed– write down 3 things that have been good that day
• Be kinder to yourself especially if you think you've made a mistake
• Challenge your negative thoughts, try and look for the upside.
• Put a worry into perspective and let it go.
• Get outside and notice 5 things that are beautiful, maybe say hello to a neighbour or reach out to a family member.
• Smile.
  

A new year is the perfect time to focus on your future. Solution focused hypnotherapy could be your 'personal trainer' in your bid to reach emotional happiness.

'Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions' (Dalai Lama)