There comes a time in everyone’s life when they’re put through the wringer. Pain is a normal part of life, however, just like everything else, it will pass. We understand that these words bring little comfort while you’re in the thick of it, but perhaps these three self-care methods will help you navigate your way through the storm. Or at least dampen its effect.
Do Something That Brings You Inner Peace
Turbulent times are characterized by the jarring instability that they bring along with them, be it emotional, financial, physical, mental, relational, or else. During these times when you feel off-balance and stuck in the whirlwind, you must take some time away from everything to ground yourself. This could be through taking some time alone, meditating, listening to music, taking a walk, spending time with a loved one, or amidst nature. To each of us their own way. Remind yourself that this is not you escaping or slacking off. This is you pacing yourself and replenishing your energy in order to remain calm and composed enough to get through the rough times.
Don’t Carry the Weight Alone
Many of us have been accustomed to carrying the weight, regardless of how heavy it is. While this has made us stronger in more ways than one, sometimes it’s impractical to handle everything yourself. When a loved one is suffering because of an unfortunate medical condition, it makes sense to let the doctors worry about the treatment as it is their area of expertise. Likewise, when a loved one passes, people who work at FuneralCare show you that it’s okay for you to leave the responsibility of funeral arrangements to a service that specializes in such matters, as you tend to yourself and those close to you. This is far from an act of escapism or a sign of weakness, but an act that gives you space to accept and feel more present. Your energy is precious, especially during such a time when it’s most vulnerable. It’s okay to entrust others with some things while you direct your energy where it is most needed.
Tend to Your Emotions
Emotions are a luxury. That is why it is hard to feel when we aren’t feeling safe. Turbulent times automatically trigger something called survival mode; an evolutionary response in the brain designed to protect us from danger, be it physical or otherwise. During survival mode, the brain directs all its efforts towards getting through the rough situation, while keeping at bay anything that might hinder its survival, and unfortunately, that includes emotions. Nevertheless, not feeling your emotions at the time doesn’t mean that those emotions don’t exist. In times like these, it’s important that you take some time to be there for yourself, allow yourself to go through your emotions, and comfort yourself as you let yourself feel. Doing so will help disengage your mind from survival mode. It will also ease your pain while helping you find comfort in yourself amidst the turbulence.
While we may logically understand that life stands for pain as much as it stands for pleasure, tough times can rob us of the peace that comes with knowledge. Pain is an emotional reaction to a specific event, and like other emotions, it reaches a peak before it dissipates. Remember that true strength lies in your ability to accept the difficult emotions, to let them in, and then let them go.
