it’s hard to keep up with all of the trauma that has been happening in our country: Roe vs. Wade being over in turn, more black men being violently killed by police, immigrants dying in the back of semi-trucks trying to find safety in this country, another mass shooting and a government who just wants to blame the other side and pray about it (which to me feels like a big F you to the people of this country). It feels like the world is in chaos and it will never end. To keep up with everything is distressing and will inevitably cause burnout. This is why it is crucial, wait let me rephrase that, life-saving to have a good set of boundaries and a self-care plan.
First thing I think you should know when the world is in chaos
- It’s normal to be angry
- It’s normal to be sad
- It’s normal to feel helpless
- It’s normal to feel numb
- It’s normal to feel hopeless
- It’s normal to still find moments of joy
- It’s normal that old feelings come up
We all have our ways of coping with chaos, it’s okay to be feeling all of the things.
So how do we make it suck a little bit less when the world is in chaos. Boundaries and self-care.
Boundaries to consider:
1. How much media do you consume?
It’s important to be informed and it’s important to care for yourself. For me, I am mindful when I consume information. Right before bed is a no-go for me because my brain will not stop thinking about it and I won’t sleep.
2. Who are you engaging in conversation with?
This is a time when a lot of people start debating on the internet. Just don’t give the trolls the time of day because you aren’t going to change their mind. Having conversations with family and friends, face-to-face. If you find yourself in a heated debate, know when to leave. Is this relationship important to you? What’s the most important thing I want the other person to hear? Try using I feel statements.
I feel _____ when ____ because ____ what I need is _____
Self-Care ideas:
- Balance staying informed and resting
- Get connected to your friends, family, community – whoever you feel most supported by
- Consider the ways you can get involved: marching, donating, educating yourself or others, volunteering, participating in discussions with community members/organizations, run for office, write a letter/call to a government official, take a class
- This is where the feelings of hopelessness and helplessness will decrease when you are getting involved.
- Move your body: dance party in your living room, go for a walk, ride a bike, go for a swim. Movement helps you clear your mind and release the tension you are holding in your body.
- Listen to music that makes you feel like a badass
- Try to eat healthily. Be mindful when you are emotionally eating
- Spend time with friends and not talk about the world being in chaos
- Go for a drive
- Try something new
The important thing is to find little moments of peace when the world is in chaos. You have got to take care of yourself. Your health and wellbeing are important to your resiliency and surviving this crazy world.
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