How the f**k are we supposed to navigate this?!
Writing this and trying to avoid the usual cliches is hard, if not impossible. So you have to forgive me that in this blog.
The world is a hard place to live in at the moment - what’s happening is hard to comprehend, sometimes impossible.
So have are we supposed to navigate it? Here are some simple tips
Be mindful of WHEN you take in news. Opening apps first thing means you’re opening your mind to it all before you have even had your morning coffee. Maybe wait until you’ve grounded yourself in your day before letting news in.
Make sure you’re covering your basic needs - water, food, movement. Ensure that this is happening regularly for you. Also get some social interaction in - communicate with those who make you feel good.
Rest. If sleep is hard to get, then aiom for rest. Take moments of rest where you can. Lay on the sofa and close your eyes for five minutes. Be mindful of this time.
Make time for “self care”. I know, I know - self care has been used as a wellness selling phrase, but it’s important to make sure you spend some time doing things that help you feel relaxed and safe.
Strick to one or two news sources. And make the ones you trust. Exposing your mind to news that doesn’t sit well with your values can be more damaging. Block and snooze accounts which promote things that don’t align with your values.
Check in with your boundaries. And adjust them accordingly. Make theses adjustments from your adult self.
Turn OFF your news notifications. This is one thing that has created such grounding space for me personally, I only get WhatsApp, text or call notifications.
Give yourself permission to ignore the news. Allow yourself that grace. I appreciate it’s a really hard task, but giving yourself that break can help you in the long term.
Be aware of overdoing it. We all want to help, but martyr burn out is a real thing. Stay mindful of all of the things your body and mind are telling you about needing a break.
Do what you can, in small doses. Taking small action steps is helpful for you, what is going on in the world, and others.
Most of all - ask yourself, how can I do this with total compassion for myself?
Until next time, L x
