There's a moment when the pain hits so hard you feel frozen. Maybe it's words that have been spoken, maybe it's remembering, maybe it's the moment you lost them. But when it hits, when the tidal wave overtakes you, you feel like you cannot breathe. There is no moving it feels all-consuming. At that moment, what do you do?
What do you do?
How do you calm the racing thoughts?
How do you pause the squeeze on your heart?
How do you catch your breath?
Here are some of the things I do:
1. Pray: I know for some of you this is a "duh", but all to often this is our last resort when it should be our first.
"Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Don't worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your request to God" - Philippians 4:5-6 (NASB)
We have to take it to the Lord. Everytime Period. Often just the task of putting it before the Lord calms me and is enough. Here are a few more ideas that will also help.
2. Journal: Similar to prayer the action of writing your thoughts out. Of seeing them all out can help ease the pressure. Sometimes seeing them will help you with or solution or feel that you have been able to say your peace.
3. Walk: Go for a walk. Take some time and breathe. Some call this grounding, I see it as the opportunity to spend time with the Lord. Often when I get out and take a walk I notice I'll start talking and praying. The act of moving helps calm my heart, regulate my breathing, and spend quality time away from everything. There are times when I'll play music or put on an audio book but I will often do nothing. My pup loves this too as usually it means a nice long walk.
4. Music: Turn on some praise music and worship. The outward action is such a wondeful release. If you're like me music is something that God uses to speak to you. I have a playlist of songs by Christian artist that many wouldn't classify as praise and worship put they point me right back to Christ when I'm in the thick of it.
"O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you;
my soul thirsts for you;
my flesh faints for you,
as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary,
beholding your power and glory.
Because your steadfast love is better than life,
my lips will praise you.
So I will bless you as long as I live;
in your name I will lift up my hands." ~ Psalm 61:1-4 (ESV)
5. Talk with someone: This could be a friend, family member, pastor, prayer partner, or even a therapist. Long story short, find someone you can talk to when you're struggling. I recommend having a community of people you can turn to, 3 to 6 people you can touch base with when you're overwhelmed. We are meant for community and having people to lean into who can point you back to Christ is important.
Obviously, this is not an exhaustive list but hopefully it gives you a place to start.
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