I recently met Kate Ramstedt, LMHC, and I thought some of my clients might be interested in knowing about her. Her lovely office is in the same building as my massage practice (Queen Anne SPACE Building). She has a warm personality and some unique counseling philosophies and techniques to help, especially with anxiety. Her very informative web site is here.
Laurie Swanson, LMT: Hi Kate, What is one easy way to begin using mindfulness when I’m feeling anxious?
Kate Ramstedt, LMHC: I recommend following the breath. Even allowing just one minute to simply breathe can help us to put things into perspective. Often the situation that is causing anxiety feels like a matter of life or death, but when we give ourselves permission to pause for a moment things become less overwhelming and we become more effective at managing the situation.
There is a lighthearted and engaging example of how to put this into practice in a short video here.
Laurie: I love that video! I hope everyone will try it now–I just did. Thanks!