I know a lot of us have been thinking about the news and how to balance staying informed, being useful, and maintaining health and sanity.
The conflict in Ukraine and mind-numbing injustice here in the U.S. have been on a LOT of people's minds, so I decided to fast-track a question that came into Forbes last week:
Yes! I do, thanks to stellar research from trauma and PTSD experts. Here's the deal...
PROBLEM:
The news is in the palm of our hands. We have total access and (seemingly) zero control over what's happening. Turns out, that's a problem for our nervous systems. It leaves us stewing in adrenaline and cortisol.
SOLUTION:
According to research, there’s a physiological remedy for feeling helpless. Physical movement and/or taking meaningful action—large or small—can purge stress hormones and soothe the nervous system.
Under trying circumstances, "self-care" can feel selfish (or useless), but, in fact, moving our bodies or helping others can physiologically ease our bodies and minds. That's true whether we're talking about Ukraine, a bad breakup, book bans, or stressful work situations. It gives us power to channel stress into something useful... even therapeutic.
If you can make a habit of filling those needs, "you might find that 'self-care' and care for others have a way of weaving together. Both reduce suffering."
Wondering where to begin? In this week’s column, I discuss:
the science behind coping,
why we "doomscroll," and
how to identify actionable remedies.
You can read it HERE.
Sarah
We heard from a few people that they were nervous to send questions via email (because they could be identified), and the editors have heard you!
We have a NEW GOOGLE FORM where you can send questions 100% anonymously with zero contact info. CLICK HERE to hit me up with your toughest questions! I want to know what's on your mind!
Looking for ways to help? This article from The Guardian offers numerous ways to help the people of Ukraine.
For a list of organizations working in a variety of other areas — from addiction to animal protection, racial equity to women's health — click here.
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Past posts can be found HERE.