How is your heart feeling today?
I hope you are feeling at ease, appreciated, and safe today.
As I begin to unpack today's topic, I encourage all of you to take a deep breath, inhaling and exhaling slowly, releasing any heaviness stored within your body, especially in areas you may not always pay attention to but which often communicate with you, signaling change. Focus on the inhale as a way to show appreciation for everything your body does for you and to express love for it. Now, exhale with the intention of acknowledging the impact stored emotions can have and how you intend to let them go.
Here we go.
The past week and a half were emotionally heavy for me. Everything felt like it didn’t make sense, and my efforts to feel a sense of “ease” were not successful. Thoughts about the state of the world and where we are headed had me questioning everything I do. There were times I had to remind myself that I am just one (of many) person in this world trying her best to make a positive impact with my actions and the spaces I create for others.
But even then, other things were pulling at my soul for attention — like how crazy it is when you’re not happy within your work environment and the impact it has on your mental health. Something as small as not getting enough sunlight during the day can cause major changes to someone’s body and thoughts; I say this because my office does not have a window (crazy, I know). And so, I have been reminding myself to take breaks and walk outside to get some fresh air and sunlight. However, the feeling of heaviness isn’t necessarily because of the lack of sunlight; it is because, as a creative and community-oriented individual, not feeling like I am giving back to the world in a meaningful way during 8 hours of my day is soul-quenching. Have you ever feel like this?
Side note: Sunlight exposure triggers the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. This can help improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
The emotions speaking to me have been urging me to take action, and most of the time, I have no idea where to start. The majority of us do not have a clear blueprint for navigating life. Many of us have been the “first” in our families to walk unknown paths and open doors that have demanded a lot from us (ending partnerships, friendships, relationships, bad habits, toxic work environments, etc.); and by a lot, I mean the challenge of confronting our true selves and intentionally choosing to sit with the heaviness to welcome the light — that is not easy journey, and is an ongoing journey.
And so, those emotions were causing me (and some still lingers) to doubt my spiritual gift and other aspects of my life. I even felt horrible about not being able to show up for my friends the way I usually do as it has been difficult to even send text message. Although I know my friends do not think less of me if I am unable to show up 100% (if anything, they would find ways to remind me of who I am and bring me out of the house if possible), I have been feeling extremely guilty about it.
You may ask: How can one navigate times when life feels too heavy to cope, to move, to think, or to believe?
I believe that one of the best ways to cope is to rely on the people you trust and express these difficult thoughts and emotions to them. Lean on your faith and surrender to its power. Reflect on the goodness in your heart and affirm that these are all temporary emotions meant to convey a message, or perhaps, they simply need to be felt for what they are before being released.
Nevertheless, I am here to tell you that it is okay to not feel okay from time to time, to struggle, to feel a little lost or scared. I mean, we are human beings, and not one of us is immune to these emotions.
It's important to give yourself grace during these times and allow yourself the space to be alone if needed. Taking time for solitude can be a powerful way to recharge and reflect on your emotions.
Remember, it's okay to prioritize your mental health and well-being.
Quick Journaling Prompt: Reflect on a time when you gave yourself grace during a difficult period. How did it help you cope, and what did you learn about yourself in the process?
To end on a good note, some of my friends who live nearby ended up inviting me out for a hike, and here are some pictures. It truly made me feel better!
A word for the month of March
May any heaviness you're feeling be released with every exhale.
May you set intentions that align with your values and goals.
May you get closer to yourself in ways you've been manifesting for so long.
May you see the small wins and allow yourself to feel them wholeheartedly.