Everything seems political these days, am I right?
The way we identify, the issues we advocate for, the rights we demand, even the choices we make for our body– somehow, society has found a way to create polarization around normal, everyday occurrences. Sometimes, I find myself wrapped up in political conversations that I had no idea were even political.
From inflation to actual war, the world feels very chaotic right now but there is a balance to be found in choosing a side versus choosing your mental health.
You decide what that looks like, but however you choose to do it, it’s possible to be politically aware and disconnected (to a healthy extent) at the same time.
Take a breath in. Take a breath out. Now, read on.
What does it mean to care for your soul?
Caring for your soul is about catering to the inner parts of you that govern the way you think, feel, and act toward yourself and others. If you find that you’re down and depressed or unable to function at your best, it may be an indication that your inner self is not well. We live from our souls. Our feelings, emotions, and inner dialogue are all affected by whether or not our soul is healthy. If you take a self-assessment to ask yourself how you feel and that answer is “not great”, you’re in the best position of your life - because you can do something about it.
Make Joy a Priority
I was watching an interview with Issa Rae once and the interviewer asked her if she was having fun with her life. She replied, “I’m having a ball.” I asked myself at the moment “Am I having a ball?” The answer was a resounding ‘no’ and I’ve been working to change that ever since.
Being intentional about doing what makes you happy is a productive and effective way to reset your focus. It also has the capability to create space for hope which can be helpful in moments that don’t feel great. I’ve found joy in the hobbies that feel like pure unadulterated fun – dancing in my room, taking Zumba classes, trips to Home Depot, nights out with friends, etc., but your list should be specific to you.
What things bring you joy? With what you already have access to, what can you do right now to cultivate more joy in your life? Are there hobbies you had as a kid that you can re-explore? Are there new things you want to try? This is a perfect time.
Focus on gratitude
This crazy inflation time can make us feel like we don’t have much certainty to hold onto right now. Especially with eggs at $10 a carton. I’ve heard and learned that gratitude is grounding. Beginning a gratitude practice can change your perspective as you identify the good things in your everyday life. If you’re interested in trying this, grab a notebook (any notebook), and every day before bed or midday, write all the things you’re grateful for - big or small.
Choose Your Battles
Social media is filled with arguments and battles over…the most ridiculous things. We are arguing about everything from making your man a sandwich to whether or not having your mattress on the floor means you’re broke or stylish. Consistently engaging in conversations that may enrage or trigger you can affect how you feel on a daily or weekly basis.
Try to control what you can and let the rest go. You don’t have to share everything. You don’t have to digest everything. Choose what you engage in. Limit your social media usage OR unfollow accounts that may negatively impact you. Watch more videos that make you laugh and fewer that traumatize you. It’s okay to protect yourself by not engaging. It’s probably the best thing you can do for yourself.
Rest & Listen!
Rest is essential to the soul. Rest can look like a myriad of things but it should feel light, restorative, easy going. Take a nap. Spend time doing nothing. Decrease your responsibilities. Sit outside and listen to the sounds. Lay on the floor or the bed and listen to music. Slow down and rest your body - it is in these moments that we are restored. Maybe none of these tips resonate with you, and that’s okay. You can develop your own formula for caring for your soul by asking the right questions and listening for the answers:
How do I feel?
How is this (conversation, post, action, activity) making me feel?
What do I need in order to feel better emotionally?
Whatever you decide to do, make sure it works for you.