Swimming Experience Essay

1) Describe any small or significant changes experienced during and after this process. Did this project help address your stress?
a) Cognitive Restructuring Reframing: I cannot say that all my problems are over or that I am an expert on these techniques, although cognitive restructuring allowed me to pay close attention to my attitude, how I perceive things and the way I react to them.
b) Mental Imagery and Visualization: I have done this for almost a couple of months and I this is a much easier technique for me. I do find that it helps me relive my stress. Unlike cognitive restructuring, with mental imagery I feel more at control. I am able to guide my imagination anywhere I wish to and very seldom do I get distracted.
c) Swimming: Swimming

I often found myself being negative and I am not going to lie when I go to that place it is hard to snap back. For the most part I was able to redirect my thinking, but there was always those moment where I just let loose of my imagination and I always ended up seen the worst possible scenario of every situation I encounter. I think that redirecting my thoughts to a more positive outlook will take time and practice. I just have to make sure I stick with it. As far as swimming, this was a bit of a struggle, not because I did not enjoy swimming, but it was mostly due to weather. Since the weather is about to get super hot this would no longer be a problem and I can easily stick to this routine. Other than that, humor and mental imagery were easy and enjoyable and for the most part I was able to practice them without

I believe they have been beneficial in helping me cope with my stressors. Cognitive restructuring for sure has helped and as I continue to practice a positive outlook will become second nature. Mental imagery has already become part of my daily routine, it is fun, relaxing and a good way to cope or distract me from negative though. Humor is also another strategy I will continue to use as a distraction for those times where my anxiety level is high. Swimming is also a good way of stress reliever and it also a way to condition my body to a healthier path.
6) Describe any changes you would make to this practice to keep you motivated, or to enhance the effects? Cognitive Restructuring Reframing:
a) Mental Imagery and Visualization: I will not be changing anything from this technique. Practicing this technique in the morning and at night are good times. These I look forward to mental imagery and visualization because it allows me to go places I enjoy. I see it as an instant vacation without having to spend any money.
b) Swimming:. I will extend the time I spend in the pool from 30 minutes to at least an hour. I really enjoy swimming at night when I am by myself, but perhaps I will also include my children a bit more in this routine, this will allow me to enjoy both swimming and the company of my