Tag Archives: Gentle

Self Care in Crisis Mode

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Self careLife can be challenging with deadlines, needs, and our own expectations. It can be unpredictable with what it throws our way, what our days look like, or how the people in our lives behave. But when we neglect to take care of ourselves, especially in the midst of crisis, we’ll eventually wear ourselves out to the point that even the simplest task can look monumentally impossible. We may even experience a nervous breakdown where we cry and scream in anger, and it’s ok if that happens. It doesn’t mean we’re weak, broken, or worthless – it’s just our body’s way of releasing the accumulated stress in our bodies like a pressure cooker releasing its steam. But once we release our angst and anxiety, it’s important not to stay in that place for too long – we’re just meant to be visitors passing through, not be permanent residents. Here are 5 simple ways we can take care of ourselves before, during, or after a breakdown:

  1. SLEEP: This alone will do wonders for our mental, physical, and emotional well-being. It’s perhaps the only time where we consciously and subconsciously let go. We’ll usually function and cope better after a deep uninterrupted sleep.
  1. EAT: Our body needs nutrients to keep the immune system strong, ward off sickness, and keep our mind alert in making better choices. Especially during crisis mode, it’ll help to stabilize our emotions and balance our hormones. Replenish the body with healthy food choices and drink lots of water to remove any toxins.
  1. SUPPORT: No man is an island, have a few key people to lean on during this time – either talk it out, take a break from worries to have fun, or be in the quiet company of them.
  1. REST: Throughout the day either take a nap or a *tea break. Close your eyes, be still, and listen to your breathing. *I suggest staying away from caffeinated beverages as it may rattle your nerves.
  1. LET GO: Most times, our stress and internal turmoil are self-induced. Learn to recognize and let go of misplaced responsibilities, self-imposed expectations, letting others down, or what you think others want you to be. Learn to say ‘no’ to people’s request and also, to yourself – you don’t have to get anything done, it can wait.

May we find simplicity, perspective, and peace in our journey.

©2014 Susie Lee

Words of wisdom to live by.

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Go placidly amid the noise and the haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible, without surrender,
be on good terms with all persons.

Speak your truth quietly and clearly, and listen to others,
even to the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexatious
to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain or bitter, for always
there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals,
and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love, for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment;
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.

And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore, be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be.

And whatever your labors and aspirations
in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

-Desiderata

My dear friend and sister, Angie, sent me these timely words of wisdom to live by today, and in the days to come. We all need friendships that we can draw encouragement, strength, and a shoulder to lean on when our hearts grow faint and weary. I hope each of you can find inspiration and courage in the unexpected places of life.

If you’re having a rough day, be gentle with yourself. Find some time today to retreat to a quiet place, perhaps re-read your favourite book, or soak in the beautiful words of poetry, slowly sip a hot beverage, paint, read, write, play with your pet, go for a nature walk, take a nap, do something that’ll restore your peace, joy, and ultimately bring you rest.

©2014 Susie Lee