How do we keep our cool when it feels like the world is crumbling or burning down around us?
We've certainly dealt with our fair share these past few years... a years-long pandemic, environmental issues, war, economic challenges, political upheaval, and yes, even weird smoky/smoggy conditions created by wildfires in other countries.
During times of uncertainty and chaos - whether in the world around you, in your office, in your house, or even just in your brain - it's natural to feel concerned, overwhelmed, and anxious.
Please know you will be FAR better able to handle challenging times when you already have consistent practices in place to help you feel centered, calm, and present.
Work now to build these strategies into your life in a meaningful way and you will be much better able to handle the inevitable curve balls that life, wildfires, and even raccoons throw at you.
If you don't yet have these tools in your life, no time like the present! Start small and add one at a time. Tip #5 can be used in any and all situations, no prep required ;)
Here are 5 strategies that will help you
manage inner disquiet and stress:
# 1: Take care of yourself
Figure out what makes you feel well-balanced, happy, and at ease... and then do it.
Prioritize self-care as a non-negotiable in your every single day. Remember, there is plenty of time for what's important.
PS ~ YOU are important. Your health, happiness, and well-being are important.
Make time for this.
# 2: Focus on what you can control
There are many aspects of life beyond your control.
Rather than dwell on what you can't change, shift your mindset toward what you can influence or directly manage.
Action is a powerful antidote to fear, anxiety, stress, and worry.
What is a single small step you can take to bring about progress, change, comfort, or ease in your life right now?
Figure it out, and then do it.
Notice what changes.
3: Cultivate Gratitude
Consciously nurturing gratitude can bring much needed peace and perspective to almost any situation.
A simple practice: Reflect each night on 3 things you are grateful for that happened that day. This takes about 2 minutes, can be done anywhere and has the capacity to change the trajectory of your life.
# 4: Create connection
Connect in with yourself and out with others.
Every single day.
Connect in through practices like yoga, breath work, meditation, sitting in silence, and journaling.
Connect out with friends, family, supportive communities, and volunteer organizations.
Go deep on a conversation, listen to understand rather than respond, and find compassion and strength in the shared space, values, and community.
# 5: Remember Mr. Rogers
In worrisome and uncertain times, especially when the events are big and scary in scale, I come back to what our old friend Mr. Rogers said:
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping'.
This always brings me a sense of peace and security, and renews my faith in humanity to see the strength, bravery and heroism regular people are capable of in even the most extreme circumstances.
You will find what you look for. Look for the good whenever you can.
Have a beautiful, safe, and happy week friends
With love,
Carolyn
xx