By John Ogilvie, Byron Yoga Centre

Life has a way of throwing challenges our way, often when we least expect them. Finding ways to stay calm during these moments is essential to maintaining balance and resilience. Whether it’s a personal crisis, a work deadline, or, as we’ve recently experienced here in Byron Bay, preparing for Cyclone Alfred, stress can feel overwhelming. But in moments of chaos, we can cultivate a sense of calm through conscious awareness, breath, and movement. Here are some practical techniques to help you stay grounded when faced with stressful situations.

When stress levels rise, our breath often becomes shallow and rapid. One of the most effective ways to regain control is through deep, mindful breathing. Try this simple practice:

• Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four.
• Hold for a count of four.
• Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of six.
• Repeat for a few minutes.

This technique activates the parasympathetic nervous system, signalling to the body that it’s safe to relax.

Gentle movement can help release tension and bring a sense of ease. A few grounding yoga poses, such as Child’s Pose (Balasana) or Forward Fold (Uttanasana), can offer immediate relief. If you’re able, a short walk in nature can also work wonders, helping to shift your perspective and reset your nervous system.

Often, stress stems from worrying about the future or ruminating on the past. Practising mindfulness—staying in the present moment—can be a powerful antidote. A simple way to do this is through the 5-4-3-2-1 technique:

• Notice five things you can see.
• Touch four things around you.
• Listen to three different sounds.
• Identify two scents in the air.
• Become aware of one thing you can taste.

This exercise helps anchor you in the now, reducing anxiety and bringing clarity.

During times of uncertainty—like preparing for a cyclone—coming together as a community can provide immense comfort. At Byron Yoga Centre, we’ve seen the power of collective resilience. Whether it’s sharing resources, offering a kind word, or simply knowing you’re not alone, leaning on each other fosters strength and calm.

No storm lasts forever. Just as the weather shifts, so too will the challenges you face. Remind yourself that stress is temporary, and you have the tools to navigate it with grace.

In the face of life’s uncertainties, we can always return to our breath, our bodies, and our sense of community. At Byron Yoga Centre, we’re committed to sharing these practices to help you cultivate inner peace—no matter what comes your way. You can also learn and deepen these techniques on one of our yoga retreats, where we guide you through breathwork, movement, and mindfulness practices designed to help you build resilience and find calm in everyday life.

Stay safe, stay grounded, and remember: calm is within reach. If you ever feel overwhelmed, remember that there are external resources available, such as Beyond Blue, which offers support for managing stress and mental health challenges.

Namaste,

John Ogilvie
Owner and CEO of Byron Yoga Centre since 1988