7 Tips to Regain Inner Peace During Difficult Times
Nov 08, 2024
“When there is no enemy within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you.” – African Proverb
I know this election season has been especially difficult for many of us. When I first heard the news, I felt such a strong wave of emotion that I couldn’t hold back the tears. I spent the day connecting with my closest friends and took four long walks, soaking in the weather and letting my feelings flow. Taking time for self-care, gratitude, and grounding has always helped me find my footing, even in challenging times like these.
Here are some tips that I hope will help you as well:
1. Limit Screen Time
The news can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of constant updates. Give yourself permission to take breaks from the news and social media. Set boundaries around screen time to protect your mental space.
2. Connect with Community
Lean on the people who bring you strength. I spent time talking with my best friends, who were my lifeline. Whether it’s a phone call, a walk, or a virtual gathering, connection can bring much-needed comfort.
3. Make Space for Joy
Find time each day to do something that brings you joy—whether listening to music, dancing, or reading. These small acts of joy are potent tools for resilience. If you know anything about me, you know I was dancing to reconnect with my joy.
4. Acknowledge and Name Your Feelings
Emotions are natural responses to challenging events. Give yourself time to feel and label what’s coming up—whether it’s anger, sadness, or worry. Research shows that naming emotions can help us process them and reduce their intensity.
5. Practice Mindful Breathing
Taking a few minutes to breathe deeply, focusing on slow inhales and exhales, can help regulate your emotions, especially when they feel overwhelming.
6. Engage in Physical Movement
Movement is always regulating for me, and going on long walks helped ease my mind. Physical activity can be a powerful way to release pent-up emotions, so whether it’s a walk, yoga, or dancing around the room, let your body release the tension it may be carrying.
7. Practice Gratitude (Gratitude is a Superpower)
In moments of turmoil, gratitude can bring us back to a sense of peace. Reflecting on what I’m thankful for, even during challenging times, has been grounding for me. Take a moment each day to write down something you’re grateful for, no matter how small—it can shift your perspective and lift your spirits.
For additional support, here are some excellent resources offered by the Association of Black Psychologists:
- Weekly Sawubona Healing Circles - This space is protected for individuals with a lived Black experience.
Held every Monday and Thursday at 6:30 PM ET, these virtual healing circles provide a safe space for collective healing. Join tomorrow's circle at 6:30 PM ET here: Sawubona Healing Circle - Resource Handout
The Association of Black Psychologists has a handout full of resources for mental and emotional wellness: Resource Handout PDF - Black Wellness Directory
A directory to find Black therapists and wellness providers: Wellness Directory - Creating Zola Mondays on YouTube
Explore weekly sessions focused on community and healing: Watch Here - Family Self-Care Toolkit
A toolkit with resources for family and community care: Family Self-Care Toolkit PDF
Thanks to these practices, I have regained my inner peace and am here to support anyone who may need guidance in finding theirs. If you’re looking for someone to talk to or explore these ideas with, simply respond to this email, and we’ll figure out the details together. I am dedicated to helping, and I look forward to supporting you in any way I can.
"The Source is omni-present and omni-active, so all is always in Divine order." ~ Dr. Akhu
