I tried not to look at the news yesterday. Let my phone die, resisted my FaceBook addiction. I spent the day with my friend, eating and laughing, coming back to myself little by little.
For me, the bloodshed of this week was overwhelming. Two black men, shot dead by police. The cycle of police violence and then violence against police. And worse yet, it's been weeks of nightmarish stories. Orlando, Istanbul, Baghdad, Dallas, streets in Minnesota and convenience stores in Louisiana.
As activists, empaths, or concerned human beings, we often get caught up in the suffering of others. But we can't successfully help the world unless me make time to care for ourselves. Here are some tips for staying above the waves during challenging times.
1. Unplug
It's okay to take a break from the social media web of horror stories and heartbreak. You're only human, so sometimes you need to go back into your heart for a while. Turn off your phone, let the outside mess be, and take the time you need to work through your emotions instead of reading every detail of the latest bombing, or watching violent videos on repeat.
2. Breathe
Breathing techniques are especially helpful for managing stress. Some emphasize the "7-11" method, a breathing technique that lowers your heart rate, calms the mind and promotes a relaxed mood. From your stomach, breathe in for 7 seconds and out for 11 if you feel overwhelmed or anxious.
3. Yoga and Meditation
Yoga and mediation can give you the space you need to process difficult emotions. By engaging with the present moment, using the breath, yoga and meditation make stress more manageable. Check out an app called Buddhify for guided meditations whenever you need them.
4. Talk about it
Right now, so many people are wrestling with feelings of hopelessness, fear, and rage. You deserve a safe space to talk about what you're feeling, which is why support groups and therapy are so important. If you don't have access to these resources, an app called "7 cups" has 24-hour trained volunteers you can message about whatever you're feeling.
When your heart hurts, and you're losing faith in humanity, know that you aren't alone. You deserve the space and support you need to find a sense of peace. If we all made self-care a priority, I think there'd be a lot less tragedies to report.
