Being in the Light in Times of Darkness
Photo credit @energyplan_creative
"Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness."
— Desmond Tutu
We all experience seasons of darknesss, and perhaps recent world events have left you feeling overwhelmed and helpless. In this unprecedented upheaval of our society, I often feel like I’m treading furiously to keep my head above dark waters, fighting to find balance and calm in my life, mood, and energy.
As a health and wellness coach, I've witnessed how challenging times can impact our physical health, emotional resilience, and overall sense of wellbeing. Yet I've also seen the remarkable human capacity to find light in unexpected places, often when we need it most.
Finding Glimmers in the Darkness
Even in our darkest moments, glimmers of light exist if we attune ourselves to noticing them. A spectacular sunset, a child's laughter, the first spring bloom, or a piece of music that resonates deeply—these momentary experiences of beauty and awe can be profoundly healing.
Research shows that practicing "aesthetic appreciation"—the deliberate noticing of beauty—can reduce stress, boost positive emotions, and even strengthen our immune systems. These moments aren't mere distractions from difficulty; they're essential nourishment for our spirits.
Building Connection When You Feel Most Like Withdrawing
When life feels darkest, our natural tendency might be to withdraw. Yet connection often provides the very light we need. We might consider:
Deepening relationships with neighbors or community members
Engaging with faith communities that provide meaningful support
Joining interest groups aligned with your passions
Volunteering, even in small ways
One client found that after losing her spouse, the simple act of joining a weekly community garden group provided both structure and connection during her grieving process. "I didn't always feel like going," she shared, "but tending something growing alongside others who didn't expect me to be 'okay' became my lifeline."
The Healing Power of Creativity
Creative expression offers a unique pathway to wellbeing during difficult times. You don't need artistic talent—just willingness to engage in the process:
Trying new recipes, cooking colorful and nutritious meals
Tending plants (try starting with just one!)
Engaging in simple handwork like knitting or needlepoint
Singing or dancing for joyous expression
Trying creative activities like drawing, painting, or collage-making
These creative practices activate different neural pathways than our analytical thinking, offering a restorative break from rumination, upset, and worry.
Being Intentional About Information Consumption
In these extraordinarily challenging times, how we consume information matters tremendously for our mental health. I have to be deliberate to avoid overwhelm. Consider these Ideas:
Designate specific times for news consumption rather than constant checking
Choose reliable sources that provide context, not just alarming headlines
Balance awareness of world events with content that inspires hope and action
Consider a periodic "information fast" when feeling overwhelmed
Remember: staying informed is important, but not at the expense of your wellbeing.
Self-Care as Radical Action
When the ground beneath us feels shaky, consistent self-care becomes not a luxury but a necessity. Starting with self-care gives us power to act when action is needed:
Prioritize healthy sleep habits for restorative rest
Move your body in ways that feel energizing
Choose foods that provide stable energy and nourishment
Minimize substances like alcohol that might temporarily numb but ultimately intensify difficult emotions
Find comfort and inspiration in great books, your local theater, or through a healthy dose of escapism in a captivating TV show.
These basics form the foundation that allows us to respond thoughtfully rather than react from depletion.
The Quieter Path to Wisdom
Sometimes, the light we seek is found not in doing more but in creating space for stillness:
Try a five-minute daily meditation practice
Practice simple breathwork techniques to regulate your nervous system
Spend time sitting or walking in nature
Journal to access your inner wisdom
Finding Your Path Forward
If you're navigating a dark season right now, I invite you to consider:
What small glimmer of light can you notice today?
Where might you get involved and give back to your community?
How might you connect with others in ways that feel fulfilling for you?
What creative or learning practices bring you even momentary joy?
Where might you offer kindness—to yourself and others?
The path through darkness isn't about forced positivity or denying reality. It's about cultivating practices that help us hold both the difficulty of our circumstances and the possibility of light—even simultaneously. These practices are my daily lifeline.
As Maria Shriver wisely notes: "When the ground shifts, I've found the best thing to do is to be of service. Go where the light is. Go where the love is. Go where the people who are doing beautiful things are."
As a health and wellness coach, I partner with clients to develop personalized strategies for navigating life's challenges while nurturing physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. If you're seeking support during a difficult season, I invite you to reach out for a complimentary discovery session to explore how coaching might support your journey toward wholeness.
