By Sally Cross, Therapeutic Life & Relationship Coach at Natural Change Coaching.
Where World news has an endless reach, traveling at lightning speed, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the stories of global crises, social injustices, politics, war and the environmental challenges inundating our daily lives. The weight of these worries can seem unbearable at times. However, holding on to these concerns can often lead to more stress and anxiety rather than solutions. What if, instead of clinging to what we can't control, we focused on nurturing our own well-being and that of our nearest and dearest?
The Burden of Worry
Recognising how crippling worry can be is the first step toward making a change. Chronic worry can impact on stress-related health issues, including anxiety disorders and heart disease. The incessant weight of anxious thoughts can feel like a heavy burden that grows heavier with each concern we add.
Realising that most of these worries are outside of our control gives us the power to release them. For example, instead of stressing about climate change on a global scale, we could start by reducing our own carbon footprint at home. When we focus on what we can influence in our lives, we can significantly lighten our emotional load.
Assessing Our Responsibilities
With the daunting range of issues facing the world, rethinking our own responsibilities and impact can be more beneficial. We cannot solve every single problem, nor should we be expected to, but we can have an influence closer to home. For example, community service can help reduce feelings of helplessness. Consider engaging in local initiatives that align with your values. For instance, you could volunteer at a food bank, a charity, or support local businesses. By directing your efforts toward community-based actions, you not only create a positive impact but also reduce your own anxiety. Small, actionable steps can make a difference.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness offers a powerful tool to combat worry. By training ourselves to appreciate the present moment, we can transform our perception of daily life. Techniques such as breath-work, meditation or mindfulness can decrease stress levels by as much as 30%, according to research published in the Journal of Health Psychology.
Incorporating mindfulness into our routine can be as simple as spending five minutes a day reflecting on positive experiences. Focus on the warmth of a the sun, the beauty of the surrounding nature, or the sound of the ocean. These small acts can help ground us and remind us that life encompasses joyful moments, even amid heavier concerns.
The Power of Connection
When navigating the world’s worries, the role of connection cannot be undervalued. Sharing our anxieties with friends, family or a professional coach/counsellor can significantly ease our emotional burdens, reducing stress and anxiety.
By building a close network around us we can feel better supported and cultivate resilience. These actions can lift our spirits and remind us that we are not alone in facing our concerns.
Embracing Change and Growth
Rather than viewing the unknown with fear, consider it an opportunity for growth. By letting go of worries beyond our control, we create openings for new experiences and fresh perspectives. Understanding that personal well-being is important not only serves ourselves well, but also inspires those around us to shine brighter.
As we navigate life’s uncertainties, remember that prioritising our own well-being is essential. Letting go of what we cannot change will enable us to approach the world more positively, with confidence and resilience, enabling us to help the people around us and have a direct positive influence in the world we live in.
If you are looking for guidance on breath-work, meditation or mindfulness, I am qualified in these modalities, perhaps I could lead you to find a calmer life.
Maybe you are affected by the craziness of the world; overwhelm, worry, stress, anxiety or mild depression, I hear you...I'm here for you..
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