5 simple techniques to handle life's most common issues

Self-help books can be hit and miss. In some cases a merciful writer can lift your temperament while you're reading, however the genuine counsel given is dreary.Others may be written in a style that drives you mad but are so full of useful suggestions, you're willing to read on regardless.“Cut the Crap and Feel Amazing” by Ailsa Frank is one such book. Written in a very American tone, it doesn't just capitalise the word AMAZING, it uses it as much as 13 times a page.That said, it is packed with simple ways to beat stress, meet your goals and usually feel good. Here are a couple of my favourite tips from the book.

GET HAPPY :

Smile technique :  If you’d prefer to feel 'amazing' more of the time, the answer is surprisingly simple. Just smile more. Whether you're cleaning your teeth, strolling round the grocery store or confronting your greatest dread, smiling makes you feel better.What's more, it helps you become more solution focused.

Why it works :  Research shows smiling diminishes your body's stress response, whether or not you feel happy. One study even found that people who smile when stressed have lower heart-rate levels than those who don't Smile.

AID CONFIDENCE :

Kickboxing technique : Want to feel invincible? Harness the energy of a kickboxer. Begin in a wide-legged stance, one foot infront of other, and throw punches in a one-two formation. Then, kick your back leg forward and up, and lower back into a wide-legged squat, as you say, “I can do this” or “I am doing this”.

Why it works : This technique releases mood-boosting endorphins and uses your body's muscle memory patterns to train you to believe in yourself.

BUST STRESS :

Red triangle technique : Under pressure? Take a few moments to visualise a red triangle in your mind, then imagine placing your fears and negative thoughts inside it.Visualise the triangle shrinking until it’s just a tiny speck of dust. Finally, take a deep breath in and, on a long exhale, imagine blowing the speck of dust away.

Why it works : When you're anxious, it’s hard to think creatively about problem solving.Taking the emotional charge out of negative thoughts allows new solutions in.

BOOST FRIENDSHIPS :

Chocolate brownie technique : Eaten warm, a brownie is delicate, light and comforting - take it direct from the fridge and it’s chilly, solid and difficult to digest. Bottom line? You're eating the same thing but the experience is completely different.When you need to talk a friend or colleague on a difficult subject, think of a chocolate brownie.Choose your words and tone of voice to bring out the softness in them, rather than a cold, brittle response.

Why it works : Compassionate communication prevents people becoming defensive. so you can both be more honest without hurting each others' feelings.

ENHANCE WELLBEING :

Wave technique : Imagine you are on a beach, standing at water’s edge.Tune into the rhythm of waves, feeling how they gently tumble towards you, before softly drifting away.Observe how each wave is different - some Cascading down with abandon, others creeping into the shore.

Why it works : Every wave is fluid, a similar way each day is fluid. Flowing with what comes and goes in your life allows you to be open to new opportunities and let go of what doesn’t serve you.