We often find ourselves at a crossroads. We have options, but find it difficult to make an important decision because we are stressed. During times like this, we often ask the advice of family and friends; however, the ultimate decision is up to us.

At such times, a good strategy is to step back a little from the problem and take the time to think things over. When we are more relaxed, we are better able to reflect realistically on all of the options available to us. This 'time out' will help increase the odds that whatever decision we make, it will be a good one.

The following is a relaxation technique to aid you when you have trouble making an important decision. This technique can either be memorized for single use or shared with a partner.

For optimal results one person should be relaxing, while another slowly reads the following text in a soft, soothing voice, pausing at regular intervals. The subject should be comfortably seated in a dimly lit room. The time span for this exercise should be no less than ten minutes.

Imagine yourself in the living room of a small house, seated in front of a fire place. Feel the warmth of the fire, hear the crackling of the logs, feel the heat of the fire on your face.

You feel the urge to go for a walk and you get up, open the door of the house, step outside and close the door behind you.

Walk along the garden path, open the gate and close it behind you.

Proceed walking, at a leisurely pace, along a quiet winding road. Listen to your own footsteps, feel the sun on your face and a gently breeze lifting your hair.

The road eventually gives way to meadow. Feel the soft grass brushing against your ankles and calves. See countless bright yellow buttercup flowers gently swaying. Butterflies are fluttering from one colourful flower to another. Hear the birds singing in the trees.

From the meadow you step into a thick forest. Lush green trees are all around you. Feel the coolness of the forest, hear the rustling of the leaves in the gentle breeze and listen to the activity of small animals and insects in the undergrowth.

On the other side of the forest you find yourself on a narrow pathway, leading up to a cave hidden in the side of a mountain. Upon entering the cave you feel a sudden chillness and moisture in the air. The cave is peaceful and quiet.

In the distance you see an old man sitting on a bench by an open fire. He does not acknowledge you. It appears that he does not see nor hear you.

Walk up to him and sit next to

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