Turmoil

Turmoil, according to the dictionary, means: ‘a state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty’.

The world is in a state of turmoil. The virus has created ‘a state of disturbance’. We are transitioning from what was - to what we become, the new normal. Whatever that may look like and whenever we may get there.

International travel has come to a standstill. Domestic tourism has its challenges too. Niceties we took for granted are no longer a given. Whether it is about shopping, eating out or simply going for a walk. Health restrictions are in place to keep us safe and healthy. Added to the mix or uncertainty are the loss of job security and relationships. The ‘separation wave’ is just starting. People realised that the relationship they thought they had has changed.

An economy under strain results in uncertainty. Financial security is tested in times of job losses and uncertainty. Retirement options may disappear as folk use their savings in time of economic hardship. Dreams end and viable possibilities decrease.

How do people cope? Those with a deep faith and those who are grounded in a spiritual practice may flourish. Or not.

When challenged at the ground of your being, do the prayers and mantras still work? Or is there another level of commitment and focus involved?  I find myself awake at odd hours of the night; wondering why I am awake. Listening to the radio, I hear people’s stories of hardship, worry and concern.  Rolling over, I say my trusted mantra. I was still tossing and turning—and, thoughts still racing through my mind. Mindfully, focusing on my breathing, counting slowly, I drift off to sleep. But not for long.

Mantras, prayers, and breathing exercises may not immediately give the desired effect. Sure, they have their place, however sometimes we need to process what is going on. We need to process rather than suppress what is going on in our world. Not just the big wide world where we may feel overwhelmed at the complexity and enormity of what is happening, but in the world, our jobs, our children, partners and our role in the world. To unscramble all the information takes time. A good way for me is scrubbing bathrooms and floors or a power-walk around town.

Do you know what works for you to get a grip on the confusion, to realign your path for the future?

We might need to take time out, and be gentle with ourselves As we re-adjust to new possibilities, refocus on what is essential, what do we want out of life at this moment—thinking about what is feasible, doable, and the possibility of new dreams.

My solution to sleepless nights? A hot cup of tea, journaling or reading a good book and a hot water bottle!

What is yours?

Do you get up and do something creative, or do you stay in bed?

  Seek Peace and find it within.