Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength. ~ Charles Spurgeon
How very true is this quote from Charles Spurgeon? Anxiety permeates so much of life in our world at times. It doesn’t have to be full blown fear of something to have a negative impact on our subconscious.
Just the subtle reinforcement of concerns via social media, news programmes, internet etc can have a dramatic impact on our thinking and lifestyle over time.
We take on board so much information subliminally and we are exposed to so much media so easily that often we don’t even consciously notice it anymore, think radio news in the car, TV news in the background, internet headlines every time you look at your phone, ipad, tablet etc.
Mixed messages are prevalent as news and documentary makers vie for our attention aiming to bring us the latest, most up to date information about current topics. Much of which has been covid related over the past two years.
Have you noticed your emotional reaction changing over the past couple of years? Do you get frustrated more easily? Does the thought of actively listening or watching the news make you feel anxious, uncertain or simply fed-up? Do you find yourself getting exhausted by the effort involved in getting through each day sometimes? A good way to deal with this kind of response is to take up a hobby, some kind of craft activity that can distract your attention and focus and give your mind and body time to rest from the environment around you for a while.
As chaplains part of our role is to help you find ways of nourishing yourself, giving yourself time to explore what will help you to feel positive and hopeful in life.
On the fourth Monday of each month from 12 til 1pm we have a mindful activity session in the dining room of the Engine rooms covid rules permitting. You are very welcome to join us for a chat or simply to try out one of the craft activities for a bit of creative relaxation, or a few mindful moments.
If you don’t manage to catch up with a chaplain on site, as always you can contact us via email on info@mitechaplaincy.com where you can request a call-back, or you are very welcome to call me directly on my mobile: 07526 378529 either to chat or to arrange a time to meet with one of the chaplains.
We also have a range of resources on our web-site including some that are more specific to the Covid-19 outbreak and some that help in dealing with stress: https://mite.org.uk
If you prefer you can easily keep in touch with us on social media: Facebook: @mitechaplaincy Twitter: @mitesthwarr
Photo by Ashlee Brown on Unsplash