Self Care In the Time Of Chaos and Conflict

cassandra james, dei manager

I’m not sure about anyone else, but it’s been months since I’ve watched the news. My Instagram algorithm is enough to spike my blood pressure, why add to it by watching the news. (Side note, on my algorithm, I also have recipes I save but will never actually try.) We all know that constantly exposing ourselves to stress isn’t healthy, but do we know what exactly is happening to us?

Physically, chronic stress can:

• Weaken our immune system
• Cause digestive issues
• Disrupt hormonal balance, which can lead to weight gain and metabolic disorders

The impact is not only physical but can also manifest itself mentally.

• Trigger or worsen mental health conditions
• Impair cognitive function
• Disrupt your normal sleep patterns

​Self-care can feel a bit selfish.  How can I make a mani/pedi appointment when people are suffering?




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​But repeat after me, self-care is not selfish. As the saying goes, “you can’t pour from an empty cup”.  It’s very important that you are aware of how your body is reacting to what you are seeing, and hearing, and start implementing coping strategies to keep yourself psychologically safe. 

• Setting limits on news or social media consumption.
• Mindfulness or deep-breathing exercises to reset the nervous system.
• Intentional exposure to positive or hopeful content (e.g., community stories, local volunteer work).

Doing this can feel as if you are ignoring the bigger picture, but you’re not. You are just becoming more mindful about how you choose to engage with it.
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RESOURCES

• 10% Happier Podcast
• The Calmer You Podcast
• Stop Overthinking – Nick Trenton
• Managing Stress in Highly Political Times – Michael Murphy

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