How to help when we're feeling helpless...

​These days, it seems everywhere we turn, there are reminders of how bad a shape the world is in. It is true, we are facing unprecedented times. With all the craziness going on around us, it is expected to get overwhelmed with the magnitude of it all and to feel helpless in being able to create some positive change. 

When I feel that way, I go back to a wonderful exercise that I learned when facing an overwhelming situation.  It made me feel like there was something I could do to improve the situation which really helped me feel more at peace.  
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 The process is an easy one.  Step 1, sit comfortably. Step 2, take a few deep breaths, relaxing and letting go of all the muscles from head to toe. (This may take several breaths). Step 3, picture the person or situation that needs attention (in this case, it might be the whole planet). Step 4, send the person, thing or situation, love, kindness, care, enlightenment or whatever you think is needed. Keep doing this for several minutes or until you feel you are done.

​There is no way of knowing if doing this has any impact on the situation but it can help us feel like there is something we can do to help, even if it’s just sending good thoughts. I can tell you that when I have used this tool, it has been an incredible benefit as the anxiety and helplessness are lessened and there is a feeling of peacefulness and able to cope. Give it a try and let me know how it went!