The Last Third of the Year
This goes out to all of you who have over the years identified as: spiritually gifted, highly sensitive (HSP), introverted, and otherwise gifted and sensitive.
Four more months to 2023. Imagine that! Each year September to December usually poses a challenge to the emotional and mental health of most people. I am hoping this page gives you some preparation for then. Those around for a while - have this down! To the new folks - you may not believe it (so start observing) or if you do, it will take some time and a ton of habit-creating to incorporate these practices in your life. Go slowly and what resonates go with that!
You are not alone in this, as I too have to prepare - my reading list this year is so much fun and I have a number of fabulous reads lined up and pre-ordered for this specific time. I am also making origami lucky stars. It's this thing I used do on the NY subway on my way to school that kept me focused if I didn't feel like reading. People would give me looks, smiles and random head nods. Here is a pic of one from 20 years ago that I actually do have in a box in my office.
This period for 2020 and 2021 was different thanks to the pandemic. Most of the issues that concerned clients were almost eradicated as many triggering events were all unable to happen for the most part: company dinners, family gatherings, lots of holiday prep-work, the hustle-and-bustle of people in general, the "hum" or background noise of the country's daily activities - all contributed to some ease. Alternatively, the confinement, changes to work + school and uncertainty posed their own unique challenges.
BUT, we are back into the swing of things it seems. So this year may feel more pre-pandemic. My expectation is that the pandemic taught us the value of our quiet and peace so that placing those boundaries may be a bit easier.
Rest. If you are tired (or soul-weary) find rest, as a depleted system will open you up to being more affected. Here is a great article on types of rest: https://blog.trello.com/7-types-of-rest
Below are some guidelines to assist and beneath them, a few resources, including a recording of me leading you through a deep breathing exercise.
Please increase your physical, emotional and spiritual protection and follow the guidelines of your various faiths as much as possible. This is a great time to see what rituals you were unaware of or now need to partake in:
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Make sure to have any special wearable items re-blessed and wear daily (e.g., jewellery, scarves, pins, etc.)
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Burn your natural incenses (try to avoid white sage as it is almost on an endangered list)
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LOTS of deep belly breathing/box breathing
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Make meaningful and mindful prayer or meditation part of your day
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Have your physical homes, vehicles and if possible business places or office spaces – cleaned, cleared and re-blessed
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If your gut tells you that a person or situation is NOT for you – heed that. RUN.
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As much I don’t want people to be any less social, keep your shields up as you go about your day, especially in public and shared spaces
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We must be empathetic and kind to others, but watch your emotional, physical and energetic boundaries as you attempt to help others
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I have given instruction over the years to many of you for ways to clear – please increase that
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More time spent in nature will do well. Your garden, yard or just next to a plant. Be like my mom - take in the sunlight, starlight and moonlight
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Move your body – dance, exercise, yoga – it moves energy
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Take note of what the people around you are bringing into your home: spouses, kids, parents, friends, neighbours, relatives
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Stay hydrated
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Epsom salt foot baths
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Eat grounding foods
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Other grounding foods include protein from chicken and fish (HSPs need more protein in their diets)
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Be sure to take your supplements and medicines. Check with your doctor as you may need to switch these up
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Your foundation of body and mind are your best tools: get enough sleep!
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Journaling, colouring, collaging, essential oils, breathwork, massage, and self-massage should now be part of your weekly/monthly routine.Think of other soothing activities that can keep you mentally and physically grounded
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Lessen any negativity as much as you can: i.e., news, “unclean” music (music with dirty lyrics basically), social media (I find IG far more toxic than FB ever was), and hold your tongue in certain circumstances. Exercise appropriate responsibility.
Resources
Breathing Meditation by Oraine
