When you need a mood boost.

There are times in life when things build up, and the feeling of being overwhelmed hits you like a brick wall. When this happens, it’s not always possible to get up from your desk to go to a yoga class, or say “Sorry kids, I need some me-time, make your own dinner.” And that’s why having some tools to lower stress is so important.

Here’s one we call the WOOP technique, which can be a powerful way to move past mental blocks. Take a few minutes to think about the following:

1. Wish - what is your wish or hope right now?

2. Outcome - what is the ideal outcome?

3. Obstacle - what might be getting in your way?

4. Plan - what is one action you can take? Make the following plan: “If [insert obstacle] happens, then I will [insert action or thought].”

Read more on the WOOP technique or explore our range of emotional awareness articles.