Fear is a natural part of life. Without it, we would not have evolved as a species. Fear is a powerful motivator and instructive, as long as we become aware of what we are fearing, when we are fearing it, how fear feels in our body and how it is directly influencing our behavior. Fear can be stealthy. Sometimes it shows up as restlessness or even paradoxically as anger.

And so, witnessing how and when fear arises is a practice for thriving. Bringing to a conscious level what we fear about ourselves, others and interacting with one another, then asking ourselves if we know what we fear to be true? If it is true, we can avoid what may cause harm. If it is false, we can learn how to get fear to stand down in the body using any of the many breath practices in these Take 5 to Thrive posts.

If fear feels like it dominates your life despite these types of practices, consider seeking professional help to heal.

Underneath all of our doings as human beings is the drive of what matters most to us. Whether or not are doings are aligned with what matters most to us is highly relevant to our sense of happiness. So take 5 to sit quietly with the question of what matters most to me right now in my life.

Then take 5 more to write down in one column all you are doing in your present existence that aligns with your answer and all you are doing that may oppose it. The more we align our thoughts, words and deeds with what matters the most to us, the greater our sense of purpose. Our mental health is supported by awareness, connection, insight and purpose. Taking 5 to become aware of how well we are connected to what matters most gives us insight into how to reshape our lives to best support our purpose.

Some say that consciousness is a state of continual co-creation of the body, mind and environment. Take 5 to assess the various environments you spend time in. Unclutter your space and keep it clean and well organized.

Freshen the area with air flow, light and, when possible, greenery.
Add something symbolic, sentimental or inspiring to frequently catch your eye.

Notice how this refreshes energy, focus and mood.

Whether or not you consider yourself to possess an ounce of artistic talent, get out some colored pencils and blank paper and dive in. Whatever has been occupying your attention either in wanted or unwanted ways, allow the expression of it to happen on the paper with the pencils. No rules other than no words, so be on the lookout for that aspect of you that wants to keep popping up to impose restrictions on your process. Symbolically exploring the arena can offer profound insight into how your psyche represents it. It is truly intriguing to see what is revealed!