We are living in unprecedented times
- Julie Roy
- Jan 26
- 2 min read
If the news is overwhelming you, you are not alone!
I am not going to lie to you and deceive you with toxic positivity; there is a lot to be shocked and concerned about. I am also not going to tell you to stop looking at it entirely, but try to do so at times. You can do the following afterwards.
First, pause for a moment and check in with your heart. Try placing your hand over your heart if that feels ok, if you are not in a place of comfort for you, can you recall one? Perhaps the picture I posted above, which I took, can feel helpful? Or, do you have a pillow, a pet, a loved one you can hold close?
Then check in with your breath if that feels ok, just ask yourself what you notice without changing it. Then try a quick body scan, check your neck, your jaw, your shoulders, your belly, your chest, your legs, your arms, and your feet. Feel the pressure beneath you, ask yourself to name where you are physically, and what time is it? Is there an immediate threat to you right now? If yes, is there someone you can call, move closer to, or move away from?
If not, please notice what your mind thinks is happening right now? What does your body show when you think that?
Some gentle ways to offer comfort:
Pause what you are doing, especially if consuming news or other stressful input
Try warmth or coolness
Use a hot shower, tea or other hot beverage
Use a warm pack or snuggle with something or someone supportive
Eat something simple and comforting
Step outside and feel the sun or the cold air
Lie down if needed
Try gentle swaying, humming or singing
If you are feeling helpless, try searching in your community for ways you can feel involved. Do you want to call elected officials? Volunteer? Get involved with protests? Think about other areas of community need and ways to develop community support.
For more ideas see my previous posts for more here:
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