Sometimes the world just feels like too much. Violence and starvation. Climate change with devastating and scary storms. Personal challenges and health concerns. Petty arguments and an overall sense that just too many of us are simply pissed off.
How do we find our way back to a solid foundation and a sense that we are strong and capable, no matter what comes our way? I'd like to suggest several strategies for finding clarity when you feel overwhelmed and over loaded:
Limit your tech and social media time. Kinda funny that I am suggesting this notion on social media platforms!! But it is so very necessary. Social media is designed to capture our attention, our emotions and even our outrage. While tech is an amazing tool for social connections, too often it can also be an enormous waste of our precious time and energy. Be careful how much you consume!
Get outside. Mother nature is amazing! Studies are now being done showing the benefits of time outdoors and it's amazing ability to help us re-set our nervous system and outlook. A walk to the mailbox or around the block...whatever you can fit in will reap big benefits.
Limit your news. We all want to be and should be well informed. In today's day and age, it takes a bit of effort to consider sources and find fact over biased and inflammatory information. Be willing to listen to other viewpoints and seek understanding and truth. Then, find something else to do! I'm old enough to remember the time before news that was available around the clock. Be informed, but not consumed.
Find your people. This one is super important. In a world of so-called increasing connectivity via technology, we are leading more isolated lives and loneliness is being reported at extremely high levels. As humans, we are social beings. Get out there and find some 'in real life' interaction. Find your tribe and your community. A place where you feel accepted and supported, whether it is a faith-based group, a civic organization, a yoga class, or a volunteer opportunity, get yourself around some other people that you can get to know and trust.
Finally, learn and establish some sustainable practices that help you stabilize your mood and tension levels. Of course, I have a bias that yoga practice is a fantastic way to move, bend, and breathe in ways that help us feel settled, calm and more secure in our own bodies. Meditation, positive affirmations or mantra, prayer time, journaling, and creative pursuits can all be beneficial and help us find a flow to our day. Finding something you enjoy and can stick with is important. Healthy practices help us build reserves for when times get tough and provide us skills we can access when we need them. If you're already spun out and at wits end, it's unlikely you'll decide its time for a healthy new habit. Have something that is already established to help see you through. Life is full of problems. Be prepared.
I'd love to hear your thoughts about these ideas. Leave a comment and let me know what resonates with you. We can create some positive support and ideas together. Have a peaceful and healthy day!
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