Silver Linings…
We are midway through February 2025. Lately, things have been testing my ability to find silver linings. I feel like I’m stuck in an in-breath. It’s been tough. When I search for them, the silver linings sometimes feel fragile and rusted.
Our world is engulfed in turmoil and uncertainty, filled with anger, unrest, pain, and suffering, with much of this chaos intentionally orchestrated. I don’t know about you, but my nervous system is fried. I tried a “news fast,” which worked for a while to relieve the assault on my nervous system, but I also realized that “not knowing” feels like I am burying my head in the sand, or like I am rolling over belly-up to the daily headlines.
I’ve gone back and forth on this. Even a quick look at the front sections of the newspaper or turning on NPR pulls me into a spiral, becoming the sole focus of my attention. Here’s what I’ve come up with to take care of myself:
I am more selective than ever about what I consume — whether it’s what I read, who and what I listen to, and for how long. This mindfulness extends to food, music, books, and topics.
I have upped the frequency of my daily meditation and breathing practices, pausing more often to turn inward and quiet my mind and soothe my nervous system. (Ask me about threshold practices.)
I actively look for more opportunities to move throughout my day: going to the local gym, getting on my mat, taking a walk to clear my head.
I broke up with social media. It’s primarily how I’ve reconnected with my relatives and friends out of state and overseas. But it’s become clear to me that it no longer aligns with my values and intentions for real connection. If you need me you know where to find me—just not on a scrolling feed.
I prioritize gratitude and meaningful connections, making time for in-person meetups and phone calls to stay in touch.
I am at my piano more! It is one sure-fire thing that uplifts me and shifts my attention from the anger and hostility (another name for the news) to joy.
I am paying extra special attention to my rest time and sleep quality.
Doing all this is more time-consuming, but so much more satisfying to me. I feel the gradual shift even as the headlines make their way to my eyes and ears.
The silver linings are a little shinier and more frequent. My breath comes more easily. I am so inspired by the acts of courage, the persistence in the face of adversity, the rising up and stepping forward. My heart fills with gratitude for the quiet moments of connection, inside and outside. This is the power of mindfulness and gratitude.
What about you? How are you taking care of yourself?