It happens to all of us from time to time. Something happens that shakes us up, takes us “off center” and leaves us struggling to regain balance in our lives. And this stress can have a very real effect on our bodies, too. Here is a simple exercise you can try at home to get centered and let go of stressful thoughts or emotions. Give it a try next time you feel “out of tune” with yourself — and if you have any other tips or tricks for getting centered, leave us a comment below. We’d love to hear what works best for you!

Begin by asking yourself, “Am I centered and tuned in?”

Feel yourself in your body in this present moment. Note how you feel in the here and now. Try to listen to your body. What is it telling you? Do you notice tension or tightness anywhere in your body? If so, use this as information to guide you. What emotions are coming up? Try to breathe into any areas of tightness or tension, and focus on scanning the body, gently relaxing each area one at a time.

If any emotionally charged thoughts or knee-jerk reactions come to your mind during this exercise, notice them and then just let them pass. Avoid the need to cling to anything right now. Just remind yourself that you are safe, and stay focused on being present in your body right now, and let the negative thoughts or emotions just drift away.

Notice what is happening throughout your body. Notice how your awareness changes. Notice any differences in how you FEEL your body before and after this exercise. And simply trust this process to unfold.

Trust that you really do have the answers inside of you.