COMFORT IN THE MIDST OF STRESS
In what many are calling “harrowing times” where do you go and what do you do to find comfort, a measure of solace and peace? It has been a stressful week for people who care.
It could be a personal issue such as a serious illness or death of a loved one, a national issue of political miasma or guns, an international issue of wars between nations, or a global concern of poverty, refugees, or climate. Whatever is claiming your time and attention and causing stress, there are some sources that can quiet the mind and the heart.
- A walk in the woods, in the mountains, by a river or stream, along a beach – immerse yourself in nature and let the Mother of our creation speak to you.
“In God’s wildness lies the hope of the world – the great fresh unblighted, unredeemed wilderness. The galling harness of civilization drops off, and wounds heal ere we are aware.” (Unpublished journal of John Muir, 1938, p. 317
- Read some poetry from any one of your favorite poets. Here’s one by Langston Hughes about Helen Keller written in 1931: “She, in the dark, found light brighter than many ever see. She, within herself, found loveliness, through the soul’s own mastery. and now the world receives from her dower: the message of the strength of inner power.”
- Listen for 20 minutes to Thich Nat Hanh talk about taking care of the habit energy of worrying: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jANxd6YGdAA
- Write down what is bothering you most, no more than 3 concerns, and describe the specific thoughts and feelings associated with each one. You can make this about one or more, being brief, or you can write several pages and see what emerges. “To do writing practice means to deal ultimately with your whole life.” ~ Natalie Goldberg
- If you have a connection to any kind of faith tradition, regardless of the name of the religion, look for some of the teachings and wisdom that have been recorded and handed down through the ages. Explore the connections with family and friends who, knowing you, may be able to offer support during a stressful time. Example from Holy Scriptures in the Judaeo-Christian tradition: Psalm 23: “…although I walk through the valley of the shadow.., I fear no evil…”
Self-care is not selfish. It is respectful, healthy, and restorative. Set aside some all-important me time. Make it a priority and be fully present, in the moment of now. Your time. A gift. Look for a moment or an event that brings joy and happiness to someone. See the smiles or hear the laughter. In the midst of your stress, it lightens the load and lifts the spirit.