Taking time for Self-Care
Resiliency is the ability to recover from misfortune and to overcome adversity. We cannot change what happens to us, but we can learn to better navigate our reactions to troubles, sorrows, or overindulgence.
Here are some questions that may be helpful on the road to becoming more resilient:
- How do I navigate adversity? Prosperity? What throws me off balance?
- Am I aware of and tuned into my stress warning signs? Are they physical, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive?
- What are my patterns when I’m stressed versus relaxed? What are my triggers? Do I routinely self-sabotage and get in my own way?
- How does my mind play tricks on me if tired, upset, or not feeling well? Does negativity affect how I eat, move, relate to others, and make decisions?
- Can I create, cultivate, and sustain a sense of self-care with consistent follow-through as a path to greater resiliency?
Building Resiliency: Various practices can be learned and have been shown to be effective in calming/resetting the nervous system. For example, daily practices of breathing, yoga, tai chi, and/or meditation can make a positive difference in becoming more resilient. Committing to daily exercise can also help stabilize mood and reduce stress. When things go wrong, a calmer state of being and more emotional reserve make one less likely to fly off the handle or overreact.
If you find yourself depleted and seeking greater resiliency, therapy can be an opportunity to discuss and implement positive changes.
Becoming more resilient is an ongoing process and journey!