This is the third in a series of blogs on choosing an intentional response to our circumstances in unpredictable times. To read our post from last week, click HERE.
We have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7).
Humans are remarkable creatures. We’ve historically managed to maintain hope, confidence, and joy in the face of difficult times. War, famine, isolation, confusion, loss, heartbreak…none of these have crushed the human spirit.
Doctors often remark about the resilience of the human body to heal from illness, but the resilience of our souls?
We often forget that we were created to endure. To grow. To heal.
Remember: You are capable and resilient
This season is not outside of God’s reach, and not outside of our ability to live through. We can handle this.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4)
But how do we keep going when we feel defeated? How do we regain resiliency when our minds are overwhelmed?
There may be a lot of different answers to these questions, but here’s one practical way to start.
Take a moment to stabilize your attention. One of our counselors, Skylar Cook, found that mindfulness exercises were instrumental in his own life, especially when stress was at its highest. One of the simplest (and most effective) ways to stabilize is through focused breathing.
Take 7 minutes out of your day to practice this mindful breathing exercise with Dr. Dan Siegel:
Taking time to breathe throughout the day can be a powerful tool for processing the feeling of being anxious and stuck at home. Whether it’s just a few intentional moments or 15 minutes, focusing on your breath stabilizes your attention and refreshes your mind.
But it’s ok to not do these exercises perfectly! If you find your mind wandering or worrying, that’s totally normal!
As Dr. Siegel mentions, “Instead of beating yourself up…simply acknowledge that your attention wandered to the conversation in the hallway, and then lovingly and gently redirect the attention toward your breath. Again and again, one breath at a time.”
Reclaiming your attention is a simple act, but a powerful one. Whatever you may be facing today, you are not alone. You are able to face this day, whatever it may bring.
And we are here with you in it, breathing together, reminding each other of our resilience,
The Cornerstone Team
If you or someone you know would like to work through this exercise, or other mindfulness practices with one of our counselors, or if you need any kind of support during this time, please reach out to us. We provide secure, cost-effective, confidential online counseling from the comfort of your own home.
Invitation
Are you anxious, worried, and stuck at home? We would love to set you up with one of our professional therapists (we have online counseling options). Feel free to explore our website and read through some of our therapist’s bios. Give us a call with your questions at 303-902-3068 or email us at [email protected].
