We're all metaphorically smacked around, burnt out, and emotionally raw from 2020. What a year it's been. What can we do to heal our weary souls?
How can we let go of what's toxic to us, hold on to what's been supportive, and move forward?
The year has been particularly challenging on my MS. The cold temperatures in New Jersey are more and more difficult for me with each passing year. More than the heat of the summer. Go figure.
Walking and climbing stairs has become more demanding, and the weakness and numbness in my lower limbs have increased.
Add into that some unexpected emotional wounds that are stressful and unrelenting.
I'm not complaining, I'm merely explaining.
When MS kicks my butt, which seems to occur more often as I age, I rely on my mantra:
"There's more right with you than wrong." - Jon Kabat-Zinn
When we journal about our blessings the simple act of creating a "what I'm grateful for" list is a powerful and cathartic thing to do.
Try it! It really helps.
This is the journal I use, by Gabby Bernstein. I love it.
NOTE: My other mantra is the poem "She Let Go" by Safire Rose. I listen to it on my Insight Timer app. It helps me let go of what no longer serves me well.
Self-care has become an overused buzzword that pre-pandemic meant one thing but now means a whole lot more.
According to Dr. Rebecca B. Skolnick, co-founder of Mindwell, NYC:
“I think of self-care in various domains such as psychological, physical, professional, and personal,” says Dr. Rebecca B. Skolnick, co-founder of MindWell NYC and a licensed clinical psychologist. Maybe it’s a long run, a midday nap between Zoom calls, an elaborate home-cooked meal, or a pint of Halo Top in bed. Particularly right now, as we are adapting to new ways of living every day, we simply can’t put “self-care” in a box. And as we learn our current iteration of “new normal,” we need modes of refocusing on our wellbeing more than ever." (Refinery29.com, July 20, 2020)
If you feel burnt out, emotionally overwhelmed, stressed, or riddled with anxiety or depression try practicing one or all of the following:
Here are a few articles to help you create your own self-care plan:
This year has been extraordinarily difficult. For the families of those who passed from COVID, their heartache is unimaginable. For those struggling with it now, or are dealing with financial, physical, or emotional problems, I send heartfelt healing prayers. I know that's not nearly enough but I hope it helps to know that others care about your well-being.
As we look toward 2021 there are no magic wands to make everything better. But I believe in the power that communities can bring. I've seen them work in the disability community. Even in our darkest hours, we know someone will always be there to listen, care, and take action.
For example last year I, and 140 other advocates from around the world, attended the HealtheVoices conference in Dallas in their "effort to further connect, support, and further empower the online health advocate community." We became a family and continue to be one to this day.
Unfortunately, since then a few attendees passed away. When we learned of their prognoses we rallied around them with love, support, kindness, and compassion. We inundated them with emails, cards, and calls. I know our devotion was important to them. Rest well, sweet, sweet friends.
We can all build powerful communities to battle the angst of our struggles. Together, we can solve so much.
Many people are feeling lonely and isolated, especially during the holiday season. Sprinkle some kindness by sending a card, text, or making a phone call to brighten someone's day. Click here for a few ideas on random acts of kindness.
My deepest thanks to ALL of YOU for following me on my journey via An Empowered Spirit. I'm deeply grateful for your kindness and thoughtful comments that always touch my heart.
It means so much to know you're with me. It's been 9 years now!
I hope I've inspired, educated, and empowered you to live a joyful life despite living with chronic illness.
My wish for you is that 2021 will be a year of good health, inner peace, much joy, and in-person hugs! Don't you miss those?
Please stay safe.
NOTE: Please seek professional help if you experience depression or thoughts of suicide.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 800-273-8255
Beautiful Cathy. I wish you and your family a peaceful holilday season as well!
Hi Cathy and Happy Holidays! I know that this year has been somewhat difficult for everyone but there is no doubt that some have a much harder time than others. I admire you so much for all the work you do to help others while staying optimistic and hopeful for yourself. Thank you. And yes, may we all hope that 2021 "will be a year of good health, inner peace, much joy, and in-person hugs!" ~Kathy
Managing to practice meditation and get enough sleep is a miracle. It can do magic to your body, especially for people who have MS. Hope that you can make the most of it and overcome all hardships in 2021.