Have you ever felt as if there aren't enough hours in the day because you're so stressed out? I do! When I'm stressed, I get really overwhelmed, I can't see the wood for the trees and end up just being a busy fool not really achieving anything. But there is a technique that I use that really helps me in those moments to put things into perspective and I've nicknamed it the 'Zoomscape.' It's an approach that transports you above the Earth, stars, and planets, on a cosmic journey to find the calm that lies beyond the chaos.
Taking Stock
Consider this: you're caught up in the whirlwind of life, and your stress levels are rising. When we are anxious, our bodies respond with a natural and physical stress response. Your eyesight narrows and everything but the object of your focus blurs in those seconds. It's as if you're wearing blinkers and are unable to see the bigger picture. Imagine a cheetah about to pounce on its prey, everything is poised and ready and in this moment we either fight, flight or freeze. Now imagine with constant stressors all around us that we are usually in this state permanently, however by breaking that loop using a relaxation method, we can quickly switch off this constrained and limiting grasp on us in order to quickly reclaim our power.
Broaden Your Perspective
Imagine yourself sitting in a peaceful environment, ready to start on a journey of clarity and tranquillity. Zoomscape is a simple approach that allows you to explore the huge vastness of the world by zooming out from your near surroundings. This is how it works:
Find Your Zen Zone: Begin by locating a comfy location where you can get away from the hustle and bustle. It could be a cosy area in your home, a tranquil park, or even a quiet space at work.
Close your eyes: Take a deep breath, allowing yourself to relax and let go of any tension. Imagine inhaling serenity and exhaling your worries and pressures. Feel a wave of peace rush over you.
Soften Your glance: Open your eyes and soften your glance. Allow your focus to soften and broaden, as if you were gazing through a wide-angle lens. Let go of the urge for detail and accept a broader perspective, try to see the bigger picture.
Start Your Zoomscape: Close your eyes again and zoom out from your immediate surroundings. Float freely above the room, taking in the sights from your immediate surroundings. Notice the colours, textures, and sensations that surround you.
Expand Your Horizons: Keep flying. Expand your view to include the entire building or area you're in. Rise higher above the trees, above the town, above the country souring higher and higher. Feel your connection to the world beyond the walls, to the interconnection of all things.
Journey Above the Earth: Use your imagination to imagine yourself soaring above the clouds, then above the Earth. Look down and take in the beauty of our earth from a cosmic vantage point. Feel the awe and wonder that this expansive viewpoint inspires.
Dance with the Stars: Extend your Zoomscape by going even further. Consider yourself floating among the stars, surrounded by their radiant light. Appreciate the universe's vastness and the unlimited possibilities it holds.
Embrace the Cosmic Stillness: Take a moment to relax and enjoy the peacefulness of this cosmic adventure. Feel the profound peace that comes from realising your place in the bigger beautiful tapestry of existence.
Return Refreshed: When you're ready, gradually return your attention to the current moment. Take a deep breath and carry the wisdom and peace you gained from your Zoomscape with you. You are now better prepared to face everyday challenges with a fresh perspective.
The Magic of Zoomscape
It works by finding peace in perspective but also offers many benefits that go beyond the simple act of zooming out:
Stress Release: By expanding your vision, you can break away from the limits of stress. You'll feel a sense of freedom as you let go of your worries and connect with the wider world around you.
Clarity and Focus: Zoomscape improves your capacity to focus and brings clarity to your thoughts. It allows you to see the bigger picture, which makes it easier to prioritise and make informed decisions.
Gratitude and Connection: As you soar above the Earth and stars, you develop a profound appreciation for the beauty and interconnectedness of all things. This leads to a stronger sense of connection to the world and the people around you.
Inner Calm and Resilience: It helps to foster calmness within and resilience. It serves as a mental retreat where you can recharge, refocus, and tackle difficulties with renewed energy.
Finally, remember the power of Zoomscape the next time stress threatens to overtake you. Take a moment to zoom out, broaden your vision, and soak in the calm and stillness that exists beyond the Earth, stars, and planets. It only takes a few minutes but can make all the difference.
May your Zoomscapes be filled with adventure, peace and wonder!