Guest article provided by: smileyblue.org
In this article from Lisa Precious of Smiley Blue, we delve into practices to help you move away from harmful substances on difficult days to something to benefit your well-being instead.
Do you ever have one of those challenging days from time to time? When people and situations disrupt our inner peace and positive energy? A single disagreement can sometimes spiral into a full-blown sleepless night or bad day. It’s tough when you hold a conviction about what’s right and true, yet your perspective is dismissed or heavily critiqued.
“One’s dignity may be assaulted, vandalized and cruelly mocked, but it can never be taken away unless it is surrendered.” — Michael J. Fox
I understand that many, when feeling low, tend to seek external remedies like alcohol or drugs. In my case, I turn to my spirituality and connection with the divine. In these moments, it’s crucial to tend to our spiritual needs, preventing us from being like a drained battery. It’s about granting ourselves the respite we need—some rest and self-compassion—allowing the spiritual connection to bring the mental rest required.
Along our life’s journey, we sometimes need that extra support, that “guardrail” of God, to keep us on track. Some days flow smoothly, while others call for spiritual reinforcement. Everything is temporary, and eventually, we can let go of the guard rail again.
“You must bear losses like a soldier, the voice told me, bravely and without complaint, and just when the day seems lost, grab your shield for another stand, another thrust forward. That is the juncture that separates heroes from the merely strong.” — Margaret George
Reflecting on my past, I realised that solace was never found in the external world. Sure, a few alcoholic drinks might provide momentary relief, but it pales in comparison to maintaining a fulfilled, spiritually charged vessel within. On days when I feel a little lowered I practice what I preach, to reach for the reassuring support and guardrail that is my relationship with God.
Incorporating spiritual practices can be highly beneficial in overcoming a challenging day and finding inner peace. Here are four spiritual practices below that I find can help:
Connecting with Nature:
Never underestimate the healing power of time spent in nature to reconnect with the natural world and, in turn, with your inner self. Take a walk in a park, sit by a river, or gaze at the sky. As you immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, allow it to soothe your mind and rejuvenate your spirit. Nature has a way of grounding us and reminding us of the interconnectedness of life.
Journaling with Meditation Music:
One of the most powerful techniques to help soothe a troubled mind is journaling to calming music. Find a tranquil space, play calming meditation music, and sit comfortably. As you immerse yourself in the music, let your thoughts and emotions flow. Begin journaling about your day, acknowledging what went wrong and how it made you feel. Next, shift your focus to the positive aspects of the day.
Write down moments of gratitude, small victories, or anything that brought you joy. Allow the music to guide your thoughts and let your pen flow across the paper without judgment.
Conclude your journaling session by setting intentions for the next day. Write down how you wish to feel, what you aspire to achieve, and the mindset you aim to maintain. The combination of journaling and meditation music can help you process your emotions, gain clarity, and set a positive trajectory for the days ahead.
Incorporating this practice into your spiritual routine can really deepen your self-awareness, provide emotional release, and bring a sense of inner peace and gratitude. It’s a beautiful way to centre yourself and transform challenging days into further opportunities for growth.
Prayer
Connect with your spirituality through prayer. Take a moment to express your concerns, gratitude, and desires to the divine. Affirm positive thoughts and intentions, reinforcing your faith and knowledge in a higher power. This practice can provide comfort, strengthen your sense of purpose, and bring a renewed sense of hope. Hand over your anxiety, and trust all will work out for your highest good.
Sharing with a Trusted Friend:
Reach out to a very close and trusted friend, someone you can confide in and who understands you well. Share your thoughts and feelings about the challenging day you’ve had. Expressing your emotions and experiences with someone you trust. This can provide much needed reassurance and a fresh perspective, and help prevent burnout.
Sometimes, just talking about what’s bothering you can help lighten the load. Your friend may offer new insights, or remind you not to be so harsh on yourself.
Remember, a problem shared is a problem halved; allowing a trusted person into your world can bring a sense of connection and reassurance that you’re not alone in facing life’s difficulties.
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