As our world continues to rapidly change around us it is easy to start to feel overwhelmed. It is important for us to be self aware enough to have systems in place that help us to snap out of the spiral of anxiety and growing fears.

In the study guide for “The Road Back To You” authors Ian Morgan Cron & Suzanne Stabile introduce the concept of SNAP. It is a quick and simple way to redirect our thinking and become more aware of God’s presence in the here & now.

Stop – for a few minutes to consciously come home to yourself and to God. Take four or five deep, prayerful breaths to ground yourself in your body and return to the present moment.

Notice – what is going on around you & in you. Are things around you calm or chaotic? How are you relating to what is going on? How are other people responding to you? Are you in a good space or using reactive behaviors? Observe what you are feeling. At this point don’t label, or analyze, simply notice.

Ask – now that you are awake to the present moment & what is happening, ask yourself a few questions that will help get you back on track if you need it.

• What am I believing right now?
• How does it make me feel?
• Is it true?
• Who would I be if I let go of that belief?

Pivot – now that you’ve become more self-aware you are freed up to make different, healthier, more spiritual choices that line up with your true self rather than defaulting to your autopilot responses.

What SNAP does is help us to interrupt our self-limiting thoughts, feelings and actions associated with our personality. It helps us to wake up to God’s presence and sovereignty in the moment. It can be done anywhere and anytime. You can devote a few quick minutes several times a day or a week long retreat to this process. It takes some practice, but it can tremendously increase your self-awareness while decreasing fear and anxiety.

Do you have a go to verse or quote for when you are feeling overwhelmed? What other actions help you overcome your fears? Share your thoughts in the comments below. I’ll continue to add your input to the following Pinterest Board. Watch the list grow & come back often for encouragement.

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