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| Links to 30/31 & the 31 Vibrant Things Launch Post |
Do vibrant things act like soothers? And does this mean we're just big-baby humans? 😆
It seems my little research-project this May has revealed that much of the vibrant matter in my life is indeed lively and functions to boost my mental health, and additionally, seems connected to my identity.
As you know, from day 1 our brains are biologically hardwired for anxiety—varied degrees of fight, flight, or fawning—thanks to that (life-saving) little stinker of a cluster of neurons at the core of our limbic systems named the amygdala. We're programed to have knots in our stomachs connected to so many mental health factors: trauma, loneliness, debt, struggling relationships, health issues, watching The Bear and so on. But, as you also know, coping strategies are numerous: breathing, exercise, music, dancing, writing, pets, watching The Pitt and yes, surrounding yourself with "centering objects" aka those optimal vibrant things that soothe. (Please dear friends, I do not mean your phone.)
This reminds me of the cliche we all know: stop and smell the roses. But wait, dear friends, don't dismiss this overused statement as trite. Why? Because it's wise, and it's true.
The garden soothes. But it need not be a garden, nor a rose—substitute any object: a favourite bookmark, your Mom's cookie jar, the photos sticky-tacked to your bathroom mirror, a Christmas ornament, your Dad's hand-me-down tools, the saskatoon bush planted in your yard to remember someone special....
Whatever the "rose," pause and pay attention to the vibrant things that act like maps when we've lost our way a bit, especially those cherished items that re-tell soft-spoken stories, that lift you a little, that bring some peace, and soothe what aches.
Often when feeling slightly anxious for no obvious reason, especially in the mornings, I will sing a little chant (OM NAMAHA SHIVAYA ) I don't even remember the meaning of, but it will set me straight every time. I used it a lot in the shower after my grandfather died and I was overwhelmed by grief. -Kate
ReplyDeleteMakes perfect sense to me.
DeleteCould we have called this post, In the Name of the Rose?
ReplyDeleteYes, I think that works.
DeleteYes there are some things that can soothe the anxiety away.
ReplyDeleteThankfully, we all have a few, I suspect.
DeleteWise words, DB, and very true.
ReplyDeleteTbh, some of these words belong to Mac Davis.
DeleteI have enjoyed your vibrant things series. I love your last paragraph. It is well-worded and rings so true.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Michael.
Delete...we all need to be soothed now and then.
ReplyDeleteYes, we do. It helps fill our cups.
DeleteI have a large, yellow bowl in my drawer that always reminds me of my mum and her making cookies, definitely soothing. The things I have that I love (photos, rocks, tea towels) remind me of something or someone, a good place or person. Thanks for reminding me of this.
ReplyDeleteThese reminders help boost my spirits too.
DeleteYour closing paragraph is a great way to wrap up this series. Well done!
ReplyDeleteThank you.
DeleteKay of Musings: I could use some soothing now since I’m into my 3rd week of fighting this cold.
ReplyDeleteI haven’t seen the Pitt. I’m told Remarkably Bright Creatures is something I need to watch.
Sorry to hear this. Others have favourably reviewed Remarkably Bright Creatures too.
DeleteHey DB! Fawning I've not heard of before. Until now I've only known flight, fight and freeze. Wishing you a groovy day.
ReplyDelete