We can all feel chipped and broken in some moments. Relationships can feel chipped and broken. Life can feel chipped and broken. Sometimes, it can be hard to find the beauty in the moment we are in.
It is natural and human to feel overwhelmed and disconnected with ourselves and others. We all can experience moments of sadness, despair, or hopelessness. We may feel like something is wrong or missing, or worry that we cannot keep up with the challenges of life.
It is important to allow ourselves to feel and express our emotions. Feeling our uncomfortable emotions helps us to process and integrate our experiences, foster growth and build deeper connections with ourselves and others.
It is important to find self soothing strategies to support ourselves during these challenging times. This can help us see that even though we feel chipped and broken, we are sti whole.
Practice:
We can begin by noticing the signs of struggle for ourselves. We may first notice negative self talk, a sensation of discomfort, or feelings of hopelessness or dispair.
Noticing is the first step. Then, the not so easy part, acceptance. We do not need to like the situation that we are in to accept it. We do not need to invite the discomfort to stay. We also do not need to push it away.
Noticing discomfort is like noticing when the weather is not in our favor outside. It may feel inconvenient. It may be upsetting to us. It is not our fault. It just is.
We do not get to control the weather of discomfort. We do get to decide how we want to show up in it. Do we want to stay inside? Do we want to cry? Or do we want to dance in the rain?
Discomfort invites us to find what feels nurturing to us.
Some things to try:
Deep breathing: Take slow, deep breaths, focusing on each inhale and exhale.
Self-compassion: Be kind and gentle with yourself when you are experiencing discomfort. Remind yourself that it is okay to struggle and that you are doing the best you can
Physical comfort: Engage in activities that provide physical comfort, such as taking a warm bath, snuggling up in a cozy blanket, or enjoying a cup of tea.
Social support: Reach out to friends or loved ones for support and connection. Talking to someone who understands can provide a sense of comfort and perspective.
This blog inspired by an excerpt from the book, The House In The Cerulean Sea, by TJ Klune
"Sometimes, things get chipped and broken, but there's still good in them."
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