The Top 3 Ways I’ve been taking care of myself during this past week
There is fear and polarization and people taking sides on a long-standing issue that until recently they probably didn’t give a passing thought to and sometimes it’s all too much. If we’re not careful it can be too easy to get pulled into a dark place — one that is full of anger, sadness, and judgment. So if you find yourself really sensitive to what’s going on, protect your inner peace. Because I noticed I've been getting overly engrossed in current world events, I've decided to take some proactive steps to distance myself from things that aren't beneficial. Here are three changes I've made in the past week:
Slowing down - Giving myself a lot of time to process without judgment.
I try to stay grounded in my thoughts feelings and responses through increased meditation, prayer, and breathwork. This also means keeping myself from slipping into and getting stuck in a negative mindset, questioning and clearing my thoughts. I am giving myself time and space to process without pressure or judgment - not allowing myself to speak or react from emotion but to feel my emotions, ride the way, and come back to the center.
2. Staying focused on compassion and connection.
Focusing on what I want instead of what I don’t — what I want for this world is more compassion, connection, and kindness and so that’s what I’m actively trying to focus on and embody, and share in this world. I’m reaching out to people to offer kindness and also just trying to stay connected with others so I don’t feel isolated or pull inward too much. I’m seeking out consuming and sharing information grounded in compassion, kindness, and connection and it’s helping me to keep focused on the good and the positivity that exists in this world, even during the harshest and darkest times.
3. Limiting my exposure to graphic content and news about the evolving situation in the Middle East.
Particularly through Instagram because the more you look at it, the more the algorithm will show it to you and you’ll lose some of your ability to control how much of that kind of content you’re consuming. While it’s important to be informed, we can’t let it take over our thoughts or our feeds. Limiting my exposure includes unfollowing any account that is taking sides or reacting harshly towards either side— i.e. framing the other parties in dehumanizing ways—calling them animals or monsters etc., as this is what allows these acts of atrocity to transpire in the first place. I’m only exposing myself to and sharing content in support of compassion, connection, love, and peace for all sides.
Prioritize your well-being. If you want to stay informed and advocate for awareness and peace of the human lives at stake, then do that. If you want to post your outfits, your vacation, your kids your makeup, and your joy — that’s okay too. It’s not insensitive to prioritize you’re well-being. It’s not selfish to continue to live your life because others can’t. Just remember to do so with immense gratitude for what you have and mindfulness for the people who are struggling to just continue about their daily lives.
Here’s to us…
P.S. Just remember that we’re all doing the best we can with the tools and resources we have and we’re all starting from a different place. Make sure you're prioritizing your well-being because you deserve it! Also, if you need support, feel free to reach out to me. Come be a part of a thriving community of flourishing women, open to all who seek support. Keep an eye out for our upcoming announcements!