It’s okay if you’re feeling it too...

Hi LiveYinsa Family,

It feels heavy lately. The news cycle is unnerving. The political tension is creating conflict.  Once again, we are forced to engage in conversations that feel charged.  We are walking with the sense that the world is on edge.

Some people are calling it the brink of World War 3.
Some are saying it’s just another distraction.
Whatever label we give it, one thing feels true:

Our nervous systems are tired.

Even if you’re not directly affected.
Even if you’re going about your normal routine.
Even if you’re “fine.”

There’s a low hum of uncertainty running underneath everything.

And here’s what I want to remind you of:

You are still allowed to experience joy. You are still allowed to gather with your friends and family. You are still allowed to rest and laugh.  In fact, it's required.

Caring about the state of the world does not require you to live in a constant state of tension.

In fact, tending to your own nervous system right now is a radical act.

When the world feels unstable, we need steadiness.
When things feel loud, we need quiet.
When fear circulates, we need connection.

Maybe that looks like turning off the news tonight.  Maybe it looks like putting your feet in water or grass or sand.
Maybe it looks like sitting at a table with people who remind you who you are at your core self.

We do not help the world by burning ourselves out inside it.

We help by staying grounded, by choosing presence, and by remembering beauty still exists.

If you’re feeling the weight of things right now, you’re not alone.

Take a breath.  Drop your shoulders. Relax your jaw. Step outside.
Call a friend and eat something warm.

We can be aware without being consumed.  I'm talking to myself as well.

I walk with many hats - one is that of a history teacher, and one is that of a healing facililitator.  These are not easily juggled in this moment.

What I know is, we can't heal in chaos.  We are often battling our own wars in our homes and our hearts, while simultaneously consuming those on our televisions and our social media channels.

We are left to question the people we have held dear to our hearts for decades, who reflect ideologies that cause harm.  We are working and living in environments that may be toxic or challenging to our nervous systems.

We tend to believe that we don't have any other choice. 

Please know, that is the greatest lie.  Even in the midst of chaos, we always have choice.

We can choose to step away, to breathe, and to check out, even if it's for a moment or an hour or a day. 

Step away. It will make you stronger, safer, and more grounded. 

Holding you steady,

Daniele