After a rigorous Ramadan, especially the last ten days, during which, along with fasting, alternative nights are spent in prayers, I eagerly waited for Eid!

A few of our cousins were back from abroad, and many family gatherings and celebrations were planned in the coming days.

However, just two days after Eid the family dramas that unfolded along with the gatherings, were a series of explosions, the drama, the expressions, histrionics and the melodrama

—– something that could give enough content for a soap opera for good three years. 

I was not spared either, despite the fact that I have a very small social circle and my relations mostly formal and distant.

The debates turned into arguments and arguments into verbal spats and in a matter of seconds; family members from all sides, paternal and maternal embroiled into what seems like a third world war!

I was unnecessarily dragged into some trivial arguments, and then my habit of explaining things took me to a different tangent , I was not able to contain and my meditation practice, mindfulness and all personal growth work melted in those heated moments.

To catch my breath, I came out, took 3 deep breaths 

and quickly came up with a story as to how busy I was, flooded with clients all week long, with not a single window to breathe. 

Citing work, I excused myself and ran away.

Phew!

I came back home and sat at my favorite corners in a deep thought

This view soothed me, calmed me down and gave me a grip on my issue.

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​What I’m sharing with you today is the Restorative Visual break technique, something you could also use when you find yourself surrounded by events and people overwhelming you or testing your patience and you realize you can no longer handle it.

Before the emotions take charge of you, go ahead and take charge of your emotions.

Step 1 – Step out of the situation as quickly as possible

Step 2 – Take a deep breath to center yourself

Step 3 – Imagine or find yourself a view which can be within your reach(the way it was for me) or simply bring to mind your favorite place

Step 4 -Stay in your visual retreat for 60 seconds (the time within which emotions rise-dissipate and fall)

Step 5 – If the emotions are too strong and overwhelming, you may need to practice it more than once.

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Life has its unique way to test us and emotions are both the weapons and tool it uses to test and teach!

Take care.

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© Mehnaz Amjad 2017-2025

Mehnaz Amjad | Coach
Hyderabad, India.