Self Care Tips to Enable during Distressing Times like the Inauguration & Beyond

Happy Friday Beautiful BEings!

I woke up with so much gratitude, but realized, on the morning of the inauguration of the 45th President of the United Sates, many were in distress and dis-harmony. So I decided to do what I do best, provide some self care tip to use today and beyond!

1. Limit/Time-block/Minimize time spent on social media

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People often fail to realize that images and videos they come across on social media platforms are triggering and will contribute to a distressed state. Just because you have an app downloaded on your device, doesn't mean you HAVE to look at it. You also don't have to check social media several times an hour or a day. Learn to say no.

2. Say NO with your voice or silence.

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Do not feel obligated to engage in conversation you know will trigger you to become irritated, angry, distressed, etc. If any conversation you are in or around goes left, feel free to ask if the topic could be changed, don't make a comment, or simply walk away if possible. Also, feel free to SAY NO if offered to be in certain environments or around people who trigger you.

3. Find or create a space of solace.

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When you realize that your internal state feels anything but peaceful, make an effort to create the space you need to bring any anxiety or stress down. The easiest way to do this is to incorporate an intentional breathing practice. Taking 6 second inhalations followed by 6 second exhalations as least 3 times, while closing your eyes. You can also find a quiet place to just go and sit, and try to just listen to your thoughts. 

4. Surround yourself with positive words and imagery

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Stimuli in the form of words and images shape your mood and perspectives on life. Your brain registers images as a piece of your life's narrative. Taking time to have positive, hopeful, faith filled, motivational and encouraging words around you and in your visual field is such an impact self care practice. Whether you create a list of quotes or affirmations to keep on a "notes" app on your phone, you bookmark inspirational pages on your web browser, or you have little notes around your room, office, car, etc... have powerful words at your disposal.

5. Tap into your creative side

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Dance, write, draw, color, paint, sing, knit, sew and create in whatever fashion you decide to.  Do it often, not just when you feel stressed, but maybe at least 3-4 times a week. Engaging in a creative outlet literally sends happy signals to your brain.

6. Create an awesome music playlist

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Music is oh so healing. Create playlist that boost your moods. Think of the songs that make you feel really good, that make you smile, that make you think of good times , and just put you in a really good place. Music carries energy, and if its music you feel that has powerful and positive energy, then thats' what you want to infuse in your life.

7. Be around people that make you smile and uplift your spirit

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Being selective about the energy you surround your self with is important when you feel vulnerable to negativity. You want to choose people that make you laugh, make you feel good, support you, encourage you, or help you relax during otherwise stressful times. We our not built to go thru life alone, and it is knowing the power of community and connection that we can often find our strength.

Honor Thyself,

​Tiffany W.