Master Grazia’s life skills

BREATHE

It is a always a good idea to keep calm at the best of times, but especially during a crisis. My Simplicity Principle is based around the proven ‘perfect’ number six, within the cognitive limit of what we can do at any time: more than this triggers anxiety.

Breathe. Sit and breathe in through your nose for a count of six, hold for six, and breathe out slowly through your nose for six. Six times. Or sit still for just six minutes a day and allow any feelings of inner turbulence to surface: the calm comes because you have let that feeling out.

Reset. Resetting is about noticing who you really are and what you can do to distract, soothe and interest yourself: you will be surprised how powerful it is to give yourself permission to rest. If you are well, do whatever you can to walk outdoors and catch the sun: nothing calms the nervous system more than nature.

Learn. The perfect way to be calm is to take control of your life as far as you can. Decide to learn one new thing a day – a new exercise technique, crafting skill: it’s all there, online, even if you are in isolation.

Network. Connect with your most trusted family and friends and reassure each other, soothe fears and help to keep things in perspective.

Knowledge. Don’t scroll endlessly on social networks for news; identify six trusted sources and check in no more than six times a day for updates. Spend the rest of the time doing something physical – walking, cooking, gardening, making. Keep to a daily routine as much as possible and create time zones in which you do certain things so there is a sense of order.

The Simplicity Principle: Six Steps Towards Clarity In A Complex World is out now (£14.99, Kogan Page)