November 9, 2023
Whenever he was at a company meeting that was stressful, Rob would reach into his pocket and pull out a photo of a small cabin on a country lake and look at it. One of his colleagues, after seeing this, finally asked what he was doing, and Rob explained that he was trying to restore his peace. Was it his home? No, he replied, just a photo that helped him relax.
Studies have shown looking at peaceful images when you’re experiencing stress provides a mental escape and calms the brain. The use of so-called “mental-escape pictures” is common in doctor’s offices, waiting rooms, college dormitories and even on computer home screens. They are scenes of mountain lakes, bamboo forests, gurgling streams, Zen gardens and other natural settings.
The loss of a loved one is one of life’s most stressful experiences, and very often you’ll find yourself embroiled in emotional turmoil, anxiety and depression and you’ll need an escape route. If you have a photo that reminds you of the beauty of life and your happier times, carry it with you and reflect on it. Even on a bad day you’ll be buoyed by positive thoughts and escape the darkness and move toward the light.
Another technique for managing stress and dealing with difficult situations is called “guided imagery” in which your imagination conjures up a peaceful place or occasion. Try to use your senses to create a relaxing experience with sights, sounds, smells, sensations that evoke inner calm.
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If you were asked to name a place you find totally relaxing, an image would come to mind. The next time you feel overwhelmed, think of that place and allow yourself to relax.
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