I recently read an article on how today’s youth and young adults have experienced traumatic events throughout their entire lives (e.g., invasions, wars, global financial meltdowns, climate change, global warming, immigration attacks, etc.). It’s a messy, messy, messy world out there.
There are statistics out there that say that 50-60% of youth and young adults admit that they are experiencing anxiety and depression. And even more experience stress, fear, sadness, loneliness, and isolation. All this appears to have increased in our post-COVID era.
These feelings and emotions are also being felt by those who are older as well. So, how do we help to improve our situations and overcome these feelings that seem to consume us? Here are four tried and true practices to help us break through the noise.
- Breathe, dude, breathe!
If we desire to ground ourselves in God, we must take time to breathe. You might be thinking, “Duh!” But I’m not talking about normal breaths. I’m talking about deep breathing. Scripture tells us that God breathed life into us when we were created. This means that God’s breath in us reminds us that God is always with us. We need to continually work at slowing and deepening our breath. This helps to slow our heart rate, calm us, and bring us clarity in the present moment. There are many apps out there to assist with this crucial practice. Check them out.
- Go take a hike!
This is really a simple one. Take a break from what you’re doing and get out into nature. When we do this, it renews our spirit and brings about a feeling of peace. If you cannot get to a forest preserve, walk to a park or walk along a creek – just get out. Experts say that this clears the mind and can improve mental health. (It’s also a great way to incorporate prayer into your day. As you walk, pray to our heavenly Father and ask for guidance and peace.)
- Have an attitude of gratitude!
More and more studies show that this helps eliminate negative feelings. And it helps us to see through the eyes of God to know that we are loved – and that is truly something to be grateful for. At the end of each day, write down or journal 3 – 5 things for which you are grateful. Over time, you should witness more positivity in your life.
- The purpose of life is a life of purpose!
We all need to give of our time to help our fellow neighbor. Serving others is mutually rewarding and gives us a sense of purpose, and it moves us from powerlessness to hope. It takes the emphasis off our own struggles and allows us to focus on improving the lives of others- which is part of the call of being Christ’s disciple. Helping others also reduces our stress and boosts our own sense of happiness and purpose.
If we can incorporate these four practices into our daily lives, we should see a big change – one that will be noticeable by both you and those you encounter in life.
This post is based off an article written by Sister Judith Minear, CSJ.
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The Lord is my life’s refuge; of whom should I be afraid? ~Psalm 27:1
It is so important to rest in the Lord. Find out why here.
