09/14/2025
I have done some training with Arielle. I really appreciate her wisdom here about taking care of ourselves in these traumatic times.
Take good care right now…
I didn’t watch the video of Charlie Kirk’s assassination. However, I’ve had enough conversations with those who did to know what was in there. And, as a trauma therapist, I know that these images can imprint in our minds…and it can take a while to recover.
Re-experiencing symptoms of trauma refers to the ways that our minds often display or review the disturbing image—again and again. Why? It is an attempt to make sense of something, and to move out of powerlessness of overwhelm back into a sense of control and groundedness.
Hyper-vigilance symptoms include feeling on guard, anxious, and worried about the next terrible thing.
These both can lead to avoidance symptoms in which we simply want to withdraw from the world…as an attempt to stay safe.
Notice if these symptoms post-traumatic stress are present for you. If so, be gentle, reach for support. Remember that this hurting world also has beauty and many kind, compassionate souls.
In a world where we are currently being exposed to threats on a regular basis, how do we find the balance between self-care and action?
In many ways, this is a very personal question. It is about asking yourself, “how much can I handle?” in other words, ask yourself at what point does reading the news or scrolling social media lead you to feel paralyzed in fear, helpless, or despairing for our world?
While I believe it is important to stay informed about the current happenings and potential threats in our world, if we ourselves become dysregulated, then we cannot participate in active solutions to make this world a better place.
Asking yourself “how much can I handle?” is a way to pace yourself and in itself is a way to ensure that you can show up for yourself, your loved ones, your community, and this world as a source of goodness.
Perhaps you have a feeling inside that says what right do I have to take good care of myself when there is so much suffering and pain all around me? I’ll offer once again that depriving yourself of nurturing self-care not only depletes your resources but reduces the likelihood that you can show up in a kind or compassionate manner for others.
And, our world so badly needs all of the kindness and compassion we can give.
Now, the question becomes, what allows you to take the best possible care for your mind, body, heart, and nervous system?
For me, there are certain non-negotiables that are part of my daily routine. These include getting on my yoga mat, meditating, taking my daily walk around the lake at sunset, and taking the time to reflect on at least one thing that brings me a sense of gratitude or appreciation. Reaching out for connection is also so important, to not feel so alone with what is happening in our world.
The final question is “what can I do to make this world a better place?” How can I speak up against hurtful actions, how can I protect the vulnerable, how can I care for my fellow human beings? These actions of care can be small, every day actions, such a random acts of kindness to remind each other that goodness exists.
Most importantly, it all adds up.
