October Wellness Check
It’s hard to miss major events happening both nationally and globally. If you’ve been keeping up with the news, you are more than likely to be feeling plenty of emotions or rather a void of emotions. Although it is important to stay up to date on the news, it is also vital to do a wellness check on yourself. It is very easy to get yourself wrapped up in emotional turmoil, so I’ve compiled a mini list of some things to help you mentally reset.
Deep Breaths:
I know, everyone and their mother will tell you to take deep breaths, but they’re genuinely good for you. When you take a deep breath, you slow your heartbeat which allows you to relax just a little bit more.
Cognitive Defusion:
If you have a moment, try the “leaves on a stream” technique to clear your mind. Whenever your thoughts are clouding your mind, you close your eyes and imagine you’re in front of a stream. You hold a leaf in your hand and write down the feeling or whatever else that’s bothering you. You take that leaf, and let it go down the stream. If you check YouTube, you’ll find guided versions that will go more in depth with the technique. It’s a great activity when you’re feeling those overwhelming emotions clogging your daily life and just need to let it go.
Simple Self-Care:
If you are someone suffering from guilt, it is not beneficial for anyone if you do not take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating, sleeping well, taking time off from your phone and participating in the things that bring you joy. Overwhelming feelings may compel you to feel lonely and lethargic. You should think about reaching out to those you find comfort in and spending time with those you care about. Or if your social battery feels low, activities involving rewards such as grabbing a coffee can help lift your spirits. Who doesn’t like sweet treats?
Creative Outlets:
Journaling, drawing, gaming, reading, all the “ings” and above can be an outlet to express your anguish. I say this as I sit here writing an article channeling all my feelings in hopes of reaching out to you!
Do Good:
Whenever you’re feeling most helpless, doing good will often make you feel good. Karma is real. You get back what you put into the world. Spread kindness and be generous because you never know what someone is going through. Be the smile that picks up someone’s mood.
And if you are a friend of someone who is personally affected with Palestine and Israel’s war, be there for them. Even if it is as simple as listening to their heartache. Let’s pray for the many innocent civilians whose lives have been lost due to genocide and greed. Take care of yourself, be thankful and benevolent.