How to Remain Calm During Turmoil

Maintaining tranquility during stressful circumstances is a learned skill that can help you through a variety of situations. Studies have shown that people who are able to maintain a positive and relaxed outlook generally live happier and longer lives. If you have a medical condition that is induced by stress, remaining calm over time can ultimately be a matter of life and death.

Instructions

• 1

  Imagine a bright light of calm and awareness centered within yourself. Remember the situation you are dealing with is about you and not the external circumstance. It's about who you choose to be at that moment and what you choose to experience. Maintain control over your feelings, which are essentially the only things you really do have control over. Determine your next steps based on conscious choice, not thoughtless reaction.

• 2

  Turning down the lights has a calming effect.

  Go to a secluded area where you can retreat temporarily and regroup your thoughts. Sit quietly and concentrate on slowing down your breathing. Ask yourself how the outcome will change your life a month or a year from now and what beneficial way you can handle it based on that. Sort through some solutions on your own. Return to the situation with genuine compassion and a quiet mind.

• 3

  Remain quiet and listen to what is really being asked of you. Avoid interruptions during one-on-one personal arguments. Create a mature and stable environment for discussion. Your partner may feel she simply isn't being heard. Repeat back what she said, so she knows you get it. She may then be more willing to hear your side of the situation, and you will be closer to a solution and a happier day.

• 4

  Avoid worrying about every bend in the road.

  Release your concerns about elements you can't change. If you are careening off a cliff in a bus in Mexico, then fussing over your luggage is not productive; holding on to the seat might be a better idea. Work with what you really can do something about in that moment, and let the future take care of itself.

• 5

  You are the captain of your emotions.

  Eliminate the belief that you are separate from the people around you. We are all one. What you do for yourself, you do for the other. There is a reason for whatever it is you are experiencing with whoever it is that's involved. Choose to be peaceful, calm and stable. Maintain complete authority over your emotions and actions.