District 2 Highlights Self-Care Part 1
The mood was lively as we settled into small groups during our July Indivisible District 2 monthly meeting. We shared how we’re doing and what we’re feeling, as the unimaginable takes place across our country. We also talked about what we’re doing to maintain our sanity and not lose hope in view of the attack on our democracy these past six months. When the 20 designated minutes for sharing was up, a few groups had a hard time shifting gears. The conversation was that compelling.
It’s important to connect the dots when managing intense feelings, to put words to the why, when we are angry, sad, lonely,or dispirited. Once we understand the cause of a difficult experience, we’re in a better position to know what to do, how to respond, and care for our needs. It was clear from the reporting that followed our small group conversations, and those that responded to the newsletter questionnaire, that District 2 neighbors possess great skill in the art of self-compassion and care.
The Basics:
Many people spoke of the need to manage and possibly restrict their intake of the news, given how shocking and horrific it is, in order to prevent emotional overwhelm and burnout. Checking in with ourselves to know just when to take a morning or day off from the news is proving helpful. Or maybe it’s a day where you have to doom scroll…
Folks talked about feeling more easily tired, given our stressful backdrop, and how important it is to pay attention to regular exercise, sleep, and healthy diets, to not get too lonely and reach out. Some mentioned our Indivisible group was helping bridge the gap when existing friends just don’t seem to get what’s happening. It’s important to be with others who share our reality these days, as well as to build a bridge and communicate with those who do not. Do you struggle with working in an environment where none of what’s happening is being acknowledged or discussed? That can create cognitive dissonance, and no, you’re not going crazy!
Spiritual practices, such as meditation, prayer, reading scripture, attending services, and exploring Buddhism can be ways to maintain calm and positivity daily, and on particularly difficult days. The podcast “Ten Percent Happier” was highly recommended for those interested in mindfulness based in the Buddhist tradition.
Overall, staying in touch with core values is important. Knowing what’s really important to do on a given day, be it environmental work or enlisting a friend. Someone sent an email list to friends letting them know about Indivisible. Or maybe it's time to escape for a while, go for a hike, get out in nature to stay grounded…birding or gardening anyone?
Tapping Creativity and Joy:
People are writing poetry, songs and signposts, making buttons to pass out and wear at marches. Some are writing to our reps in congress and putting articles up on substack about our wins.
Others are doing puzzles, astral photography and painting. Play with your grandchildren; whatever inspires joy! Pickleball? Some of us are singing in public to inspire courage, (which is highly contagious,) and spur communities to action.
Thanks so much for your sharing everyone. Part 2 comes next with self-care highlights on Learning from History and Connecting, Taking Action and Building Our Community.
- Gail