Time to check in. by Rochelle Masters

Well, here we are, drawing to the end of 2023. In this second half of the year, I have observed a consistent theme resounding from the hearts and minds of many. The best way I can put language & insight around this is to simply say that it seems, “We are pressed and not emotionally ready for 2023 to wrap up and then deal with Xmas!”.

For numerous reasons, it seems that this year has left many requiring extra breathing room or margin, not previously factored into. Now the calendar is forging ahead on its own and the anticipated achievements have not been enough. The first half of the year took more than it gave. The relational connections did not satisfy. The dream, hope or investment for 2023, has already diminished. The plan for success, may be prematurely touched by failure.

There is much more to say, yet in many ways perhaps, just learning that it is the lived and collective experience of many may assist in bringing about what is needed for balance. For those of you still checking in with yourselves or, wondering when you are going to be 'ready' to populate your calendars, let me outline a few tips for an 'emotional health check.'

This is not an exhaustive list, but important to ensure that you and those you love are adapting to and handling the stress or changes already CS faced this year. What is emotional health check, you ask?

Start with the following, and if you get stuck, you may like to seek assistance from your social or professional support network.

REDUCE STRESS

Learning and practicing healthy ways to cope with stress can boost your resilience. To help manage your stress:

• Exercise regularly
• Build, re-build or gather your social support network
• Stick with good nutrition and regular meal times
• Think positive (This takes lot of practice)
• Try relaxation methods
• Seek help

GET QUALITY SLEEP

To get better quality sleep:

• Review what sleep means for you.
• Go to bed and get up each day at the same time (put yourself on early bedtimes!)
• Sleep in a dark, quiet place
• Limit the use of electronics
• Avoid alcohol, nicotine, & stimulants late in the day
• Consult a health care professional if you have ongoing sleep problems

BE MINDFUL

To be more mindful:

• Learn how to control your breathing and do mindful/calming breath work. Repeat often.
• Enjoy a stroll and notice the sights around you
• Practice a range of spiritual disciplines and find the ones that connect with you

ATTEND TO LOSS EXPERIENCES

To help cope with loss:

• Take care of yourself
• Talk to a caring friend
• Try not to make any major changes right away
• Join a support group
• Consider professional support
• Talk to your doctor if you're having trouble with everyday activities
• Be patient. Mourning takes time

STRENGTHEN SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

To build healthy support systems:

• Build strong relationships
• Get active and share good habits with family and friends
• If you're a family caregiver, ask for help from others
• Join a group focused on a favorite hobby, such as reading, hiking, or painting
• Take a class to learn something new.
• Volunteer for things you care about in your community, school, library, or place of worship
• Travel to different places and meet new people

BRIGHTEN YOUR OUTLOOK

To develop a more positive mindset:

• Remember your good deeds
• Forgive yourself
• Explore your beliefs about the meaning and purpose of life, with others
• Develop healthy physical habits, spiritual practices, or your intelligence!