What a wild ride its been as this first month of 2025 comes to an end. The world is changing in so many ways and it can be hard to keep up. From extreme changes in climates and wildfire devestation, to global humanitarian crisis and media censorship, all compounded on top of information overload it's no wonder many are feeling on edge. In a recent
threads posts, sociologist Jennifer Walter, writes about how this intentional push towards overhwhelm contributes to reduced civic engagement and democratic oversite, leaving people feeling disengaged and paralyzed.
If you've felt the heaviness of the world and a sense of powerlessness against the rapid changes happening, you're not alone. On top of it all the new year comes with expectations for goal setting and productivity that often feels out of reach and create rigid pressures that don't allow you to honor your needs. Here are some ways to honor your needs in a shifting world.
Regulate Your Nervous System Daily
Instead of focusing on external goals, tune into how your body feels and what it needs. Practices like breathwork, somatic movement, sound healing, or grounding exercises help you stay present and adaptable in uncertain times.
Embrace Rhythms over Resolutions
Instead of forcing strict resolutions, develop flexible rhythms that support your well-being. Whether its a slow morning routine, weekly rest days, or seasonal check-ins with yourself (ladies look into cycle tracking to get in tune with your natural rhythms).
Redefine Productivity & Success
Success is more than our external accomplishments and productivity at the expense of our wellbeing isn't very productive in the end. Allow yourself to measure success by how aligned, rested, and fulfilled you feel rather than external achievements.
Cultivating Intentional Relationships
Prioritize relationships that nourish and support you. Seek out spaces where you feel seen and valued, and practice communicating your needs with confidence.
Set Energetic & Emotional Boundaries
Protect your mental health by limiting exposure to overstimulation news, social media, and draining conversations. Make space for joy, rest, and activities that replenish you.
Focus on Micro-Acts of Care
Self-care doesn't have to be expensive or time consuming. Small, daily choices like taking a deep breath before responding to stress, stepping outside for sunlight, or making time for creative expression can be more transformative than you think.
Engage in Collective Care
We need community now more than ever: to organize for change, get resources, and feel supported. Find ways to connect with and support your community, whether through mutual aid, local events, or simply checking in on loved ones. Feeling connected helps counteract the isolation that global uncertainty can bring.
