"When you're feeling pressure from a number of fronts--pulled this way and that by the demands of modern life--it's very easy to succumb to a false sense of urgency, feel out of balance and fragmented, and be in a constant state of tension. You can become forgetful and have difficulty sleeping. You may even attempt to stabilize and center yourself by resorting to the use of substances or activities, hoping they'll make you feel more at home in your own skin. Meanwhile, your mind rushes ahead from one thing to the next, while your body tries to play catch-up. The technological web consisting of computers, faxes and television--plus the noises all around--creates a constant assault on your senses. Exhausting isn't it?

First, recognize most things that you treat as emergencies or crises are merely inconveniences. Then slow down! Move a little bit slower than your'e accustomed to, and practice breathing slower and deeper every opportunity you get. This in itself helps you align with your internal rhythms, rather than being in a state of continuous reactivity to outside forces. Spend time in Nature and take off your shoes and socks. Putting your bare feet on the ground allows you to only experience your solid connection to the Earth. When you do, notice the difference in how you feel, and see if your mid isn't at least a bit calmer. It may be challenging at times to do any of this, but it can be done. It just takes your clear intention and willingness."

-Steven Farmer