The world seems to be on fire right now. So many are going through so much and it all feels a bit scary, overwhelming and uncertain at times. I thought it would be nice to share a few things that have helped me get through hard times. Whether it be not knowing how I was going to pay my rent, the death of loved ones, dealing with depression or mental health issues, these are things that have consistently helped me help myself and pull myself out of dark places. As you read this, know that some of these things may not work for everyone and that's okay. Maybe you can share with me some of the things that help you get through!
Sending love to everyone going through it! <3
1. Physical activity
As far as my mental health, this has probably been the biggest game changer for me. Weightlifting specifically has helped me completely get rid of some of my deepest depressions and helped with mood stability. When I lift consistently (about 3x per week) I can feel a huge difference in my emotional regulation and overall peace. If you pair this with walking everyday, you will feel even better! There is a lot of research that shows the benefits of walking on our mental, emotional and physical health. When you feel overwhelmed, stressed or scared, go for a walk, breathe and you will feel so much better! If mobility is an issue, try breathing exercises or getting some sunshine if possible.
2. Leaning into community
Whether this be friends, family, work colleagues, etc., it is okay to lean into spending more time with them, calling/ texting more and just doing things together for the fun of it. Humans are community-based creatures. We need one another to survive. Sometimes just connecting with someone for even just 10 minutes can fill your cup up in the most unexpected ways! So, if you have been thinking about hitting up that one friend to talk or go hang, this is your sign to do it!
3. Creating
So many of my paintings were made from a place of pain. When I feel , I release onto my canvas. Below are a few examples of paintings that I made during times of immense pain. As humans, we were born to be creative. Over time, society bleeds us of it and makes us feel as if we have to monetize EVERYTHING we do. It is okay to create just because you enjoy it or you need a release. You don't need to be good at it. Just DO IT!
4. Asking for help
Why is this one so hard? For years I struggled to ask for help until I started chipping away at it. Now I have no problem turning to those I trust for all types of help. I think you would be surprised at how many people in your life would be willing to help you or lend an ear, but you never ask! Ironically, I think most people are willing to help their loved ones, but most people are afraid to ask for help themselves and thus continues this weird loop of feeling the struggle alone when we really don't have to. I challenge you to get out of your comfort zone (aka survival mode) and ask for that help you've been needing!
5. Faith
Whether you are religious or spiritual, leaning into your higher power or higher self is so important in trying times. Sometimes our faith is all we have. Reminding yourself that everything serves a purpose and all hard things must come to an end one day is so important. Leaning into gratitude and reflecting on all that your faith has given you already can be life and perspective changing.
In Closing,
It is so much easier said than done to apply some of these things into your life. But, I wanted to at least give a little hope to even just one person reading this blog today. It might not seem like it now, but I promise, one day it will all be okay :.)
With Love,
Antoinette
