Which COMFORT or emotional support tool do you use – in times of need?

Whilst walking in America on the beach this month, I was told by a “Baywatch” type lifeguard that Rebel (my infamous Body Camp workout partner and dog) was not allowed on the golden sands by the sea, unless he was an “ESA”……

So, what Is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA)?
An emotional support animal (ESA) is a person’s pet that has been prescribed by a person’s licensed therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist (any licensed mental health professional). The animal is part of the treatment program for this person and is designed to bring COMFORT and minimise the negative symptoms of the person’s emotional/psychological disability.

This made me think for a change! Not about the fact I now had to leave the beach, but I suddenly become more conscious….we all get COMFORT from many things!

The bigger question today we bring to you at The Body Camp in Ibiza, is this. Which “COMFORTS” are supporting you in a positive, long term way?

Let’s quickly look at some of the ways we all gain COMFORT or EMOTIONAL SUPPORT in times of need….

• Alcohol
• Coffee
• Chocolate
• Bread
• Sweet snacks
• Drugs
• Crisps/chips
• Smoking
• High sugar drinks
• Watch TV
• Play video games

The above all bring comfort in the short term – however over the long term, they can also bring ill health – if consumed in large amounts and most of the above have massive addictive qualities, which can lead us to no future control over our daily habits/behaviours, sudden urges to have more of the same and gain even more “COMFORT”!

Here’s a list of better, long term COMFORTS or emotion support tools to use instead of turning to the above….

• A healthy shake
• Talking to a good friend about your problem
• Going for a walk
• Meditating
• Exercise
• Therapy
• Dance
• Reading a self improvement book
• Yoga
• Sit in the sun for a few minutes
• Boxing
• Deep breathing
• Listen to an inspiring podcast
• Watch a Ted talk
• A dog like Rebel!

In times of need, we all need something to feel good again and get COMFORT – maybe in the future in 2017, we can consciously choose something that has long term benefits too and realise that we all have the power to decide a better way to love ourselves and support one another.

Rick Parcell

Master Coach

www.thebodycamp.com