Be Gentle With Yourself – Self Care When Life Is Particularly Challenging

Be gentle with yourself right now – don’t forget to practice self care when times are particularly challenging.  There are times when the world feels like it’s too much. In light of recent events both nationally and globally, it can be difficult to feel grounded and in control. For many people, including our clients, supporters and community members, these events may stir up past traumas or cause new ones. It is important now more than ever to make time for self care.

Particularly challenging times take a toll on our mental health – in fact, adversity and mental health are  undeniably interconnected.  And it’s no wonder why – exposure to violence, whether through firsthand experience or via news media coverage, can take a serious toll on our mental health as individuals and communities. Studies have shown that adults who witness social turmoil (first hand or in the news) are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Children are especially vulnerable, as they may not yet have developed the coping skills needed to deal with such intense emotions. In addition, particularly challenging times in our lives can trigger memories of past trauma, further exacerbating mental health issues. While it’s impossible to completely shield ourselves from the effects the rising tension all around us might have, there are ways to ground ourselves in the storm.  

Self-care manifests itself in many ways, but at its core, is anything we do to nurture our mental, emotional, and physical health.  It is especially important to take care of ourselves when things feel more challenging than normal. We may need to do more self-care than usual to help manage our mental health during these times, and that’s ok.  We asked Nichole Turnbloom, one of Verity’s Alternative Healing Practitioners, to weigh in on some self care strategies she is using right now:

“Tiny reminders to be present through the day can be as simple as noticing the walk to the restroom or taking 3 breathes before you eat or drink to notice any smells, sensations, and certainly tastes!  The simple act of pausing, noticing, and engaging slows us down, teaches us patience and how important the little things are. A little effort and commitment can go a long way in helping to stabilize, strengthen, release tension and bring us back to our own center, so that in times such as these we can respond from that place of stillness, with a cup full, instead of react from a place of agitation, overwhelm, fear and anger, which can be a great motivators, but ultimately will not solve our personal or national problems.” 

Want to take a moment to ground yourself?  Check out “21 Breaths of Joy,” a breathing exercise lead by Camila Castillo, one of Verity’s Alternative Healing Practitioners. 

Some self-care steps we love are: getting enough sleep, nourishing our bodies, staying hydrated, exercising, spending time outside in nature, meditating or practicing some form of mindfulness, and spending time with loved ones or pets. Sometimes dancing to your favorite song or using a yummy smelling body scrub in the shower is all it takes to lift the spirit.  We also wanted to remind you Verity has an Alternative Healing Program that focuses on mindful practices and holistic approaches to promoting health and mindfulness for survivors of sexual abuse and human trafficking.  Click here to learn more about Verity’s Alternative Healing Program.

It’s also important to remember that it’s okay to be happy in the current social climate, even if it feels like you shouldn’t be. You’re allowed to take pleasure in little moments of light and love. It doesn’t mean that you don’t care about current events, it just means that you’re prioritizing the things that recharge your spirit and brings you joy.  Even though it sometimes feels like it should, life doesn’t have a pause button.  Grasp onto those joyful moments when you can!  If you are someone who wants to be proactive about fighting for the things you believe in,  just remember that it’s equally important to make sure you’re taking care of yourself in the process.  You simply cannot pour from an empty cup – so making sure yours is full, especially now, is very important!

Mental health and self care are always important, but it becomes even more vital in times of social unease.  Despite the challenges we face, we can find moments of grounding and peace. There will be hard days, but there will also be a light at the end of the tunnel. For survivors who feel overwhelmed by the recent events, there are resources and services that can give you guidance.  If you are feeling lost, alone, or hopeless, please reach out for help. Verity has a crisis line staffed with compassionate crisis line counselors who want to listen and support you. No one should have to suffer in silence; Verity is here for you!  We leave you with a quote recommended by one of our Alternative Healing Practitioners:

 

Courage Takes Many Forms

Courage does not always roar.

Sometimes courage is the quite voice

at the end of the day saying “I will try again tomorrow.”

-Mary Anne Radmacher

Verity is committed to serving ALL survivors of sexual abuse, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. We strive to be a safe place for any and all individuals to seek the help and support they need to heal.  If you or someone you know is in need of support, call our 24/7 crisis line at )707) 545-7273.  You are not alone – Verity is here.