Feeling like everything around you is becoming too much to handle? That life's pushing you beyond your limits or maybe even to the brink of no return? Take a breath. You're not alone. Many of us have been there, each with our own way of coping.
Firstly, let's acknowledge that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. It's a chance for us to build that resilience within us and evolve as individuals. When we resist challenges, they can snowball into something overwhelming. Instead, let's be open to the lessons they offer and face them head-on.
It's important to embrace and acknowledge the struggles we face. They're real, and so are the emotions that come with them. We can prevent them from smothering us by honouring and befriending our feelings.
However, overcoming challenges takes time and effort. It's always about taking small steps, regulating ourselves, and staying firm in our resolve to take control of our lives. It won't be easy, but we can only try our best. Because as long as there's life, there's hope. Emotions are a natural part of our journey, and we must allow them to guide us.
While there's no simple solution, there are some things you can do to make things a bit easier for yourself when it all just becomes too much to bear.
Tears Can Lighten Your Pain
Crying is never a sign of weakness, even if that is the common belief held by many people. Know that it is okay to release pent-up emotions. Whether you shed tears openly or silently on your pillow, the choice is yours. Allow yourself to feel and let go of the emotional weight you carry.
Write Yourself a Love Letter
If life throws you a curveball, who better than yourself to understand, comfort, and possibly lift you from the situation? Treat yourself with kindness, and shower yourself with love and grace. You deserve it in abundance. Take a moment to appreciate your qualities and acknowledge the good deeds you've done. It's a great starting point for self-healing.
Dance and Sing Your Heart Out
Turn up the volume and let the music take control. Whether you're into rock, pop, or jazz, crank up the stereo and let loose. Dance like nobody's watching, sing like nobody's listening. Be consumed by the joy of the moment and enjoy your own company. Sometimes it’s the simple things that can make all the difference.
Watch Some Comedy Classics
There are moments when the best remedy for a heavy heart is a good laugh. Rediscover your inner child and lighten the mood by indulging in some classic cartoons and comedy films. As cliché as it may sound, laughter truly is the best medicine, and it has a remarkable ability to lift your spirits and brighten your day.
Find Comfort in Nature
When you're feeling down, it's easy to retreat indoors and wallow in self-pity. But stepping outside into nature can work wonders for your mood. So, put on your best pair of shoes, step out into the fresh air, and let the beauty of the world around you give you a mood lift. You never know what little surprises or chance encounters await you.
Time Your Brood
When in a state of deep depression, it's common to attract and dwell on negative thoughts, and behaviours, and even consume comfort food to improve mood. This pattern may persist for weeks. At a time like that, it’s important to assess the situation. Allow yourself time to reflect, but set limits. For instance, allocate fifteen minutes in both the first and second halves of the day for introspection. Gradually reduce this to one session. Over time, you'll overcome the urge to dwell on negativity.
Have a ‘Me’ Day
Give yourself the gift of precious time and space to indulge in activities that bring you joy and make you feel like the star of your world. Pamper yourself to the hilt. Whether it's a visit to the salon for some grooming, a delightful picnic in nature, or immersing yourself in a hobby that helps you unwind and relax, prioritise self-care and enjoy every moment of it.
The key is to make yourself the centre of your universe. Enjoy what you do and witness the incredible results that follow. As challenging as it may seem, take this time to love yourself unconditionally and bask in your own presence. Because after all, you are deserving of happiness and fulfilment, no matter the circumstances.
These are just a few of the things you can do to prioritise self-care and rediscover the joy within yourself.
In the end, it’s important to realise that life's challenges are just stepping stones on the path to growth and resilience. So, take each day as it comes, and remember to be kind to yourself along the way. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding that you would offer to a dear friend. In doing so, you'll discover the strength and resilience that lies within you, ready to guide you through even the darkest of days.
With time, patience, and a little self-love, you'll emerge from the storm stronger and more resilient than ever before.
Guest article by Kavita Jhaveri | Edited by the Team @ Good Wave Foundation
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