Growth

GROWTH SUNSHINE & HURRICANES

Stay calm in the midst of chaos

Being calm isn’t always easy, let alone when chaos erupts around you. You have to cultivate a practice of being calm – and that practice must be consistent. Here are some tips to help you on your way:

1. Make a decision to create calm in your life—even when life gets chaotic. This decision is powerful in helping you maintain your daily practice. Know that this is possible to achieve, even if it seems impossible when you start.

2. Breathe consciously as often as you remember. Take three deep breaths when you get up, in the shower, waiting for your coffee, driving in traffic, sitting at your desk…whenever you remember throughout your day.

3. Take time for yourself—every day. To stay sane, you must take at least a few minutes, 15 - 30 minutes or more is better, to be with yourself. Go outside, take a walk, look at the sky. Allow the stress of the day to slip off your shoulders and savor some moments of joy.

4. Process your emotions. If you are upset about something, or with someone, give yourself time to recognize the emotions and make sense of your feelings before saying something you might regret.

5. Practice gratitude. When life feels like a struggle, it’s easy to get caught up in looking at everything that is wrong. Write down five things you are grateful for each day.

PAW’S CORNER

What to do when it gets out of control

Q. Our dog turns into a monster when she wants treats. She drools on my arm, chews on my roommate’s shoe, barks loudly and more. We eventually break down and give her a treat. How can we stop this behavior?

A: First, reinforce her basic obedience training. Work with her at least once a day on the “sit,” “stay,” “lie down,”

“leave it” and “come here” commands. I recommend not working with her during the time that you’re normally relaxing in the living room with your roommate, because you want to try to reinforce that certain places and times are for training, play or treats. You’ll also need to employ the “ignore and divert” strategy.

Ignore her attention-seeking behavior for a specific amount of time...say, five minutes. Next, command her to either sit or lie down, and give her a chew toy. When she inevitably gets up to beg again, repeat the process. Don’t give her a treat at all. This will take time, but eventually she will get it. Many dog owners add a structured treat time to the day for improving behavior.

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