Nurse Wisdom from the ICU at OHSU (4.30.19)
Rev. Dr. Steven Koski
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“It’s easy to assume you are powerless sitting in the corner letting one anxious thought add to the next until your worry is a runaway train picking up speed. When you are in crisis and the world feels like an emotional roller coaster, steady yourself with one simple task. Focusing on slowing your breath and performing one simple ritual will help you stay in the now. You are not powerless. You are a vital part of the healing team. When you fear you are about to hop on the runaway train of anxious thoughts, slow your breath down and rub your wife’s feet. Let your breath and fingers get in sync. As you are rubbing her feet, Imagine you are bringing love to every cell of her being.”
Have you noticed how something ends up never depends on how much you worry about it? When the world feels like an emotional rollercoaster, focusing on one simple task or ritual can bring calmness and clarity. Simplicity attracts peace and wisdom.
The only power you have is right now. You have no power to change what happened yesterday. You surrender your power worrying about what might happen tomorrow.
Right NOW is where your power lies. If life feels like an emotional rollercoaster today:
Place your hand over your heart.
Take three deep breaths.
Unclench your jaw.
Lower your shoulders.
Shake your head and spine like a dog shaking off cold water.
Tell that anxious voice in your head to be quiet. You refuse to jump on that runaway train of worry today.
Choose one simple thing that expresses love to yourself. Choose one small thing to express love to someone else.
Try this breath prayer:
Breathing in – Be still.
Breathing out – And know I am loved.
Breathing in – I dwell in this moment.
Breathing out – It is the only moment.
Breathing in – This breath is gift.
Breathing out – This life is gift.
If all else fails, take your old body and go out into the morning, and sing.
#spaciouschristianity #ohsu #spirituality #woundedhealers