I’m going through a really difficult time (my boy Tiger 🐈 is really sick, my sister is not doing well, my mom is mentally and physically unwell, and financially stressed). Does anyone have recommendations for dealing with anticipatory grief or how to survive intense periods of stress without resorting to unhealthy cooping mechanisms like disassociation, numbness, etc.? I do have a therapist and hoping to go back to physical therapy to help with migraines.

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Kate · Answer

meditation based stress reduction (MBSR): This is an eight week course that takes meditation out of a wo-hoo religious context and into a scientific one. Lots of MDs prescribe it for chronic pain and anxiety. It had a major impact on depression.

I learned a bunch of good tools, but the best part was the people. Getting to regularly gather and learn from people at all walks of life in a vulnerable place was incredible. 10/10, recommend to anyone going through life.

I took it through my local university, just google MBSR + your city.

Dylan · Answer

Somatics: Learning about and practising somatics has truly changed my mind-body connection. There are so many simple movements you can do to help release stagnant energy, ground yourself, and regulate your nervous system.

This is my friend & teacher's website, but there are many offerings out there to explore, both in person and from your home.

Sending so much love <3

Unicorns · Answer

You got this.: Ugh babe, this period SUCKS, im so sorry. Your physical symptoms are a measure of all the youre trying to shoulder. You’re doing your best, and that’s amazing. Rooting for you.

Emilie Bienvenew · Answer

Mono no Aware : Finding Beauty in Life’s Fleeting Moments: I've learned this japanese philosophy which is so lovely :

To feel mono no aware is to reclaim to pause — 
to stand still, even briefly, and allow the beauty of passing moments to move you.

It teaches us: Because it ends, it matters. Because it fades, it’s precious.

One way this concept is applied yearly in Japan is the cherry blossom season - it's not just pretty, it's special because it's ephemeral. Apply it to all aspects of your life, game changer.

Emily · Answer

West LA’s daily virtual al anon meeting: LA has the best 12 step meetings any side of Mississippi. There is a life-saving amount of recovery in this meeting. 735-835am PT, different link every day but easy to find in the grid linked because it’s always at the same time. you can listen to it like a podcast with camera off while you have coffee (from anywhere).

Updating for those who aren't familiar with Al Anon: technically the twelve step program for friends and families of alcoholics, really a lifestyle program for anyone who wants to stop obsessing over/trying and failing to control other people's behavior.