To the Pregnant/Mama Watching the World Go Nuts: 7 Baby Steps to Manage Overwhelm & Take Action

So you’re growing a new life or snuggling your little and looking around the world and  going WTF DID I JUST GET MYSELF INTO? 

You are in good company, mama. Oof. 

I originally wrote this after the 2016 election and sadly have had countless reasons to update around the triggering event. Today is another one of those days. I don’t need to go into specifics, because this is about moving forward. But I’ll say this: I remember weeping at much smaller scale disappointments when I was pregnant (read: people not giving up their seats on the bus) and needing to avoid the news altogether for the sake of self preservation. 

The impact of these events are strong  strong, and touch on so many pain points. 

It’s tough, mamas. It can feel like too much to take in, I know. 

So I want to walk you through a simple process that will help you to take solace in small action(s). So much of this new mama/mama-to-be business is about managing the overwhelm. This is an effort to do just that.

Step 1: Give yourself permission to turn off the news and take a break from social media (after you share this article, of course ;) The world will not end if you disengage with the flood of stories. 


Step 2: Put one hand on your heart and one hand on your belly. Take a few deep breaths to the extent that you can. Feel your belly, then your chest rise. Stay here for a few moments. Maybe let out an audible sigh.


Step 3: Imagine ONE domain of this world that you would like to see be better for your little one. Is it the environment? Healthcare? Gun control. Reproductive rights. Communication across class and political lines? Anything. See what comes.


Step 4: Think of ONE small action you can take RIGHT NOW to facilitate progress in that arena. Don’t worry about the size of your action. Ask yourself, is it more than nothing? Great. (There are countless tips online about actions you can take that should speak to whatever you came up with. Beyond that, you can be creative)


Step 5: Ask yourself: Does my action bring harm to anyone? If the answer is no, proceed.


Step 6: Repeat as often as you wish.


Step 7: Take a nap. 


Yours in wellness, self-care and compassion,

Shana
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​Think I may be the right fit for you or a loved one? Feel free to email me at contact@shanaaverbach.com or call 415-963-3546 for a free 20-minute consultation call.