Feeling Overwhelmed?
No doubt we live in traumatic, uneasy times – from our own neighborhoods to planet Earth. True confession, I’m not good at programmed meditation, but there are a few things that help me cope when I’m overwhelmed:
Getting out into the silence of the woods and literally hugging my favorite tree ( an old black locust in the north woods of Van Cortlandt Park here in New York City).
Housework; yes, housework! I got that from my mother who used to scrub her rugs with a toothbrush when she was stressed or worried. Working in a garden does the same thing.
Last but not least, writing poetry and DANCIN’ to my old vinyl’s: Harry Belafonte, Simon & Garfunkel, Tito Puente, and of course, Elvis.
One other thing I learned from my personal experience. I was a volunteer at the Ground Zero Relief Project after 9/11. When I came home from my weekday shift, I met a neighbor who had escaped the Towers. I asked him, “How do you cope with all this?” and he said, “Turn off the tv.” Today, I would add, social media. Of course, we all need to keep informed, take positive action. I’m a strong advocate for both, but the saturation of tragedy, the constant exposure to trauma may not be beneficial for you. Especially if you have been exposed to traumatic events in your own life.
So, Take a walk, Hug a tree, Put on your dancing shoes, Stay safe, Keep well, Have hope!
