After the Storm
Navigating Life After Stress
We know trouble finds every heart and home, but getting caught in the whirlwind of prolonged pressure and high stress - and the aftermath, is rough. How does one not lose heart, or lose their nerve?
Perhaps even more confronting is what happens when the clouds part, and the storm finally recedes. In those moments, it becomes absolutely vital to reflect on and recover from all that has been weighing heavy during the storm.
There are many layers to recovery but here are some essentials that help me navigate life after a stressful and difficult season.
Rest and Rejuvenation:
I’m usually fine during a crisis, but afterwards, exhaustion hit’s hard! As the storm dissipates, allow as much rest and rejuvenation as you can claim. Rest must include trust. While it may seem counter intuitive, slowing things down is key. Catch your breath, engage in activities that bring you peace and joy. Re-imagine what these elements are if you have lost your sense of self in the storm. Prioritise self-care and let your body and mind recharge and recalibrate.
Cultivate Mindfulness:
In the aftermath of stress, learn how to apply mindfulness to stay present. When we are processing everything the storm whipped up, we can often get lost in a dissociative haze... Engage instead in activities that promote mindfulness, such as meditation and breath work, and ensure you factor this skill in to recovery time. By allowing yourself to remain grounded, you can more readily let go of the past and embrace a renewed sense of clarity, non judgement, calm and hope for the future.
Reflect and Learn:
Reflection is key. Lessons learned from storms bring opportunity to grow in both form and substance. We don’t really learn reflective practices so best to cultivate a few when you’re not in crisis! From a place of love, sound judgement and personal discipline process what you’ve been through with accountability and wisdom found in trusted advisors or friends.
Guard with great care your values and convictions. Take opportunities to reflect on the lessons learned during the storm. What insights have you gained about yourself, your priorities, and your resilience? Use this knowledge to cultivate personal growth and make conscious choices that align with your values moving forward. Each experience, even the most challenging ones, hold valuable wisdom for the road ahead. In the aftermath of a storm, the urge to complain, gossip, slander, or be malicious is an urge that may seem to provide fleeting relief. Yet, it only serves to prolong and complicate the pain and indicates you are not as committed to your own transformation as you need to be to experience growth.
Reconnect with Loved Ones
During periods of high stress, relationships can often take a backseat. As soon as you are able, reconnect and rekindle the relationships that matter most. Reach out to loved ones, friends, and family who bring positivity and support into your life. Nurture these relationships and find solace in the warmth of human connection.
Foster Self-Compassion:
Cut yourself some slack. The same kindness and benevolence you would show to others, extend to yourself. Don’t allow the projections or even the adulation of others throw you off your centre. You step into your future entirely by grace. Storms often lead us to a place of surrender. If you can be trusted with loss well, you’ll be trusted with gain, if you can navigate disappointment well, you will be trusted with fulfilment. If you can navigate criticism and betrayal - you’ll know how to receive esteem and have loyal friends. As you navigate life after stress, be kind and gentle with yourself. Recognize that you did the best you could, with the best you knew given the circumstances, and that healing takes time. Embrace self-compassion by practicing self-forgiveness, letting go of self-judgment, and embracing your own inherent worth. Do not throw away your confidence. Storms may leave scars, but they also reveal our strength and resilience. Take this time to prioritize your well-being, allowing yourself to heal and recharge. Embrace the lessons learned, nurture your relationships, and walk forward with self-compassion. You have weathered the storm, and now it's time to embark on a brighter, more fulfilling season.
#AfterTheStorm #SelfCareMatters #ReflectionAndGrowth #NurtureRelationships #SelfCompassionJourney
