Deep Diving into the Abyss of You: Tips on How to Expand Your Heart in Tumultuous Times
When deep diving into the parts of you that have been in the dark for a long time, sometimes all kinds of dirt and muck can get kicked up in the process. I’ve learned that this is called shadow work. Confronting those parts of you that have lived in the dark can be a terrifying and tumultuous process.
We are currently experiencing this exact scenario right now as a country and tbh the world. Are you feeling a lot out of sorts? Do you feel triggered? Anxiety? Panic attack? Self doubt? I could go on and on.
Think of these feelings as entry points into versions of you that need a strong loving adult to help parent those parts of you that need love and guidance.
11 Ways to Ground Yourself in these Tumultuous Times
- Take a nap. Lay down and rest.
- Burning your favorite Heart Division Candle or Incense
- Having unstructured time to just be
- Sitting in quiet by yourself with a nice cup of tea.
- Having a good thunderstorm of a cry
- Drinking enough water
- Screaming violently into the night sky (a personal favorite of mine)
- Lovingly cooking yourself your favorite meal
- Being gentle with yourself
- Meditation and or contemplation
- Taking a ridiculously long salt bath
It’s ok to not be ok. Providing yourself love and comfort as you move through these feelings is essential in this shadow work journey.
Avoiding the muck only delays your journey. The muck is there to act as a contrast mirror so you can see yourself better. Once you look into the abyss without fear, armed with tools and love, you can then decide what to leave and what you want to bring with you.
Remember, every step you take towards understanding and healing yourself is a step towards a more compassionate and connected world. The work you do within radiates outward, influencing those around you in ways you might not even realize. By nurturing your inner self, you contribute to the collective healing of humanity.
As you continue this journey, never underestimate the power of community. Reach out to others who are on similar paths. Sharing your experiences can provide mutual support and encouragement. Sometimes, just knowing that someone else understands your struggles can be incredibly comforting.
Keep a journal. Document your thoughts, feelings, and progress. It can be enlightening to look back and see how far you've come. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small they may seem. Each one is a testament to your resilience and strength.
Engage in creative activities that bring you joy. Whether it's painting, writing, dancing, or playing an instrument, these outlets can help you process your emotions and express yourself in ways that words might not fully capture.
Consider seeking guidance from a therapist or counselor who specializes in shadow work or trauma healing. Professional support can provide you with additional tools and perspectives that are invaluable on this journey. I am here to tell you that it does indeed work. My partner and I both have regular sessions with a therapist.
And above all, practice patience with yourself. Healing is not linear, and there will be ups and downs. Embrace them all as integral parts of your growth. Trust that with each step, you are moving closer to a place of greater peace and understanding.
You are worthy of the love and care you give to others. Embrace the journey, brave soul, and know that you are never truly alone. This too shall pass. And it passes a lot easier when you have tools. You aren’t alone. You are brave and what you are doing is not only a gift for yourself but for the world around you.
Those who know how to journey into the deep have calm shores. If I can do it, so can you. I know it might feel weird to say this but I feel called to do it. I love you. I see you and you are not alone fellow heart traveler.
- Christopher Box Mckinzie
