Centering During Uncertainty

When there are big events, it is completely normal for our minds to jump to all the implications and try to figure out next steps and problem solve. It is easy for us to feel completely overwhelmed when we get into this mind frame. When we are overwhelmed, we’re in our sympathetic nervous system (fight/flight) and acting from a place of urgency that doesn’t allow us to see the whole picture and finds us in a cycle of reacting, calming, reacting to the next event. I want to invite you to process what you are feeling and care for yourself. In order to be effective and live by our values, we need to be coming from a place of response, not reaction. 

Let’s check in - what are you feeling right now? Can you just sit with your feelings in this moment? Can you allow space for your response? What do you need?

I want to remind you of a breathing technique I have already introduced

4-6-8 Breath

• Inhale for the count of 4

• Hold your breath for the count of 6

• Exhale for the count of 8

• Repeat, as needed

This is a bottom-up approach where our body tells our brain that it is safe to return to the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest). To get out of a place of urgency. It is not a cure for our anxiety, fear, and worry, but it allows space for our body to regulate, our heartbeat to slow down.

From this place of regulation, can you stay in the present moment? Can you make sure that your basic needs are met (ie. eating, drinking, sleep)? What else does your body need? Movement? Rest? Connection? Can you attend to that need?

As always, take what is helpful and leave the rest. I hope you have the week you need.