Write to Soothe
Hello Dear One,
How are you? Really? Put a hand over your heart and ask yourself. Be honest. Now, what do you need?
For me this week has been tough. At the end of a challenging term came the news that Christmas isn’t going to happen the way we expected. For months I’ve been waiting to see my sisters, nieces and nephew. Now, due to distance, we can’t be together. The strict Scottish restrictions which come into force afterwards have also been my deepest fear. As someone who lives on their own I know how much I’ll miss company. I’ve been telling myself that it will be ok, it won’t be the same, which I do believe. And yet, for a moment, it seemed like it might be.
Aside from crying, my first reaction was: you do not have to be positive. We can so be so quick to jump to I’m safe/warm/have enough food...that we deny ourselves the opportunity to feel. Yes, perspective is a gift. But it’s ok to be angry, hurt, disappointed, worried…whatever else might be coming up. It’s ok to be a human being. When we allow space for our emotions we can also move on from them so much faster. Now, here, writing to you, I actually feel ok.
This week I wanted to recommend some techniques I use to ground and calm anxiety. If this isn’t where you are hurrah! Check out my archive of posts for something that’s more suitable. Whatever you use, even if you just read this letter, I hope it helps.
If you’re still working on that last part - self-compassion - check out this exercise, which goes into it more deeply. For so many of us this year has not been easy, so let’s layer ourselves up in love, keep checking in, take pressure off where we can and ask for help when we need it. The latter, incidentally, is a strength, not weakness.
Next week I’m facilitating a workshop to help reflect on and release the year and, in January, I’ll be posting a prompt a day on Instagram, perfect if you need a nudge into a more regular journalling routine. I’ve also opened booking for my five-week course, a supportive and encouraging space designed to help you be kinder to yourself.
Also, my messages are always open. If you’d like to request a topic for the letter, or simply want to share how you are, do get in touch. Things will get better. In the meantime, as always, thanks for being here, and being you.
Wishing you a peaceful Christmas.
All love,
Jo