Prior musings have outlined a method of optimizing physical, mental and spiritual health by focusing on self-care and embracing the mindful attitudes of non-judgmental acceptance, patience, curiosity, trust, non-striving,letting go and kindness.
This musing will focus on managing fear caused by exposure to news. Recent political events have been quite frightening for many. The song covered by Great Big Sea “It’s the End of the World as We Know It” comes to mind. It is said that most fears can be summarized by the acronym False Evidence Appearing Real. Unfortunately, some present fears may turn out to be justified.
The question comes down to why suffer twice? Suffering once by worrying, the 2nd suffering by actual events.
In this plugged-in era of 24/7 news, it is healthy to limit exposure. Finding the balance between stress-inducing media oversaturation as opposed to complete news avoidance can be challenging. One does need to know what is happening, but not to the point of causing undue distress.
Consider the serenity prayer: Accept the things we cannot change, change what needs changing and have the wisdom to know the difference.
Wisdom comes from clear, calm awareness, not fear-based stress mode. Fortunately, mindfulness practice promotes mental strength, flexibility and emotional stability. When we calmly respond to difficulties we are more likely to improve the outcome. We need to fully accept the reality of recent events without overreacting.
Mindfulness has core attitudes of nonjudgmental acceptance of events as they occur. This needs to be differentiated from non-action or passivity. Instead of becoming overwhelmed and paralyzed, decide what action, if any, you need to take to help yourself and others. Let go of worrying about situations over which you have no control and focus instead on what you CAN do.Self care and wise action from a calm, problem-solving stance is important in tumultuous times.
Mindful Home Practice:
Maintain your self care and mindful practices. Increase awareness of your amount of news exposure and your personal reaction. Adjust news exposure to your comfort level. Set boundaries with others if they are increasing your stress. If you decide to take any political action, be sure it is from a calm, helpful stance.
Please visit www.managestress.ca for more information about courses and resources for staying calm and mindful during stress laden times.