Tightness in my shoulders, firmness in my jaw, and a lock-tight fixation on something...yep time to actively focus on a resource to regain a sense of calmness and balance.
Thich Nhat Hanh is a Buddhist monk who, sadly passed away at the beginning of this year. His writings and teachings have inspired people from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to Oprah Winfrey. In fact, Dr. King nominated Hahn for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1967. His focus on peace and reconciliation, especially during times of conflict, earned him a world-wide following, and his teachings on mindfulness continue to resonate today. A few specific resources:
Be Free Where You Are--a small book sharing his speech to Maryland prison inmates in 1999. I like the focus on one's freedom to choose how to see conflict and interactions with others, from attention to compassion to facing emotions/anger.
Peace Is Every Step--The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life. I highly recommend this book, worthy of a few reads and keeping accessible for working through dark times!
Interview with Oprah Winfrey--In watching this I appreciate the direct responses Thich Nhat Hanh has to Oprah's questions about the busy-ness of modern life, conflict around the world, and dealing with strong emotions:
Thich Nhat Hanh's Monastary in France has a website with sources of inspiration and guidance: