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These are challenging times, to say the least. If we turn on the news, radio or view social media, our emotions are sure to get stirred. All of a sudden we feel angry, sad, depressed, or worried and our emotions take us over. When our emotions get the best of us, it's surely hard to function in our days. It is harder to do our jobs, be a good parent, spouse or friend. We aren't our best selves to anyone, including ourselves. Of course, we want to stay informed about what's going on in the world and in our communities, but we also need to protect ourselves. How do we stay informed but also stay protected from conflict around us? How do we not get sucked into the chaos but remain strong and emotionally steady through this time? Here are some things to consider.
Find a Balance
The media is way too accessible from our all the screens around us: phones, T.V., computers, and even smartwatches. We are connected to media far more than we are connected to ourselves. As hard as it may be, curb your media intake. Give yourself no more than one or two hours at most of news news-watching time a day. Also, try to pay the least attention to social media, which is notorious for misinformation, and can fuel your fire. Before bed, give yourself and hour away from any screen. Instead, read a book or journal instead.
Watch Your Thoughts
Every thought we have creates an emotion. If we examine our thoughts, we may realize that we're telling ourselves things that may not be true or helpful. Try to watch your thoughts each day and even write them down. Challenge these thoughts and then let them pass. Think of yourself as the sky and your thoughts as clouds, letting them pass on by while you remain calm and clear.
Get Grounded
When we live from our minds and chase every thought we have, we find ourselves lost. We find ourselves filled with anxiety and even depression. Getting grounded helps us get out of our heads and connect to a deeper and more calmer self. To get grounded, take a few minutes to be fully present. Think of the present moment you are in and feel all your senses: smell, touch, taste and listening. Feel the moment and drop down into your body. Other ways to ground yourself are to watch nature, meditate, or just take five deep breaths in and out of your nose. Let your thoughts settle and connect to you and your inner sanctuary.
Find a Supportive Circle
When we're around conflict and debate all the time, our anxiety kicks up and our fight or flight reaction goes into high gear. This state of being isn't healthy for us, so do your best to surround yourself with a loving a supportive circle. It may be time to create boundaries and steer clear of friends on and offline who always want to challenge you. Surround yourself with people who get you and love you, and aren't going to cause you stress. Make an effort to meet for dinners and gatherings often, so you feel you're not alone.
Create a Healthy Routine
Releasing your endorphins has a way of evening out your system, mentally and physically. Make sure you're getting exercise daily, which is like nature's medicine for your well-being. Find time to walk, run, do yoga, or sign up for a more creative workout that you enjoy like kickboxing or barre classes. If you don't have time for exercise, remove something else from your schedule. Or spend less time on social media, and more time at the gym. You won't regret this shift in your weekly routine.
Tune In
Get quiet and ask yourself, "What do I need at this time?" Only you truely know how to make your life less chaotic and more joyful during this turbulent time. This is an opportunity for you to get centered and listen to your gut about what is right for you. Instead of listening to everyone else's opinion, find time to connect deeply to yourself and create change. You know just what to do and how to handle this time, if you sit still, be present and simply pay attention to your needs.
If you would like some extra support and help during this time, therapists at Mindfulness Counseling of NY are also available. Contact the office for a 15-minute consultation if interested.