By mk summerbell

The trouble with shock is – sometimes we don’t know we’re in it. Much like denial, its energetic twin, shock can affect our perceptions and judgements. Signs of shock can be similar to the effects of alcohol, drugs, pain, starvation, dehydration, or sleep deprivation on the human brain and behavior. Shock is tricky; it can take on the symptoms of almost any sickness or imbalance. We may feel a little “off,” or not like our usual self. But, in our skewed viewpoint, we can miscalculate just how far we have shifted.  

Signs of shock can be obvious, or subtle, and can include feeling numb, cold, slow, sleepy, dizzy, weak, disoriented, and/or confused. We might be more forgetful, or clumsier than usual. Our sense of time might be distorted. We may feel like all of our senses are muffled, our emotions erratic, or that we’re thinking through clouds. So, right now, if you’re feeling a little wonky in any way, just say to yourself, “Maybe I’m in shock.”

Remember, shock and denial are very closely related, often intertwined. When sudden, surprising things happen, denial is a common human reaction, as we struggle to grasp, and react to, the changes taking place. Our psyche uses denial as a survival technique, to protect us from the full impact of an unexpected event – ideally, preventing us from breaking down or giving up. Denial helps us move through times of crisis, to get to a space, where, later, we can safely process information and feelings, allowing us to slowly accept, and gradually, incrementally adapt to new circumstances. 

Shock comes on many levels, in multiple dimensions and intensities. It can be triggered by external events, internal shifts, or both. For example, any big change in life can cause an identity crisis. Marriage, divorce, birth, death, illness, promotion, job loss, relocation and retirement can all be shocking in their own way. And the impact can be physical, emotional, mental, psychological and/or spiritual. With shock, there’s a lot going on. To get through it, remind yourself that transition is a process – a step-by-step, ongoing process – of integration and adaptation. To better cope with stress, learn how to protect and reinforce inner and outer resources and support. The most important thing is to take very good care of yourself – as you also look out for each other.

If you need encouragement, ask each other. If you need support, ask each other. If you need renewal and inspiration, ask for and receive it from each other. Then pass it on to those around you when they falter or waiver in service to their best intentions. 

The world is currently living in extremes. You – stay centered. And grounded. Keep your balance by not leaning too far one way or another. This is not the time to take on new or demanding

activities. Be aware that your judgment may be impaired. Go slowly. Indulge in whatever healthy, familiar comforts you can – the routines, rituals and traditions that renew and create helpful structures and reassuring rhythms for you. Let your spiritual discipline, daily practice, and community be the steady and stabilizing factors in your life. Seek hope, comfort and motivation together. 

Review your lifestyle habits and routines, to tweak the details for ever healthier, more effective, and more efficient actions and self-expression. Eliminate or avoid toxic relationships. – And that includes relationships with substances. Please – no alcohol, tobacco or just-for fun drugs. If you must have that hot chocolate, drink it with a meal and not before bedtime. Drastically reduce sugar intake. I suggest you go back to basics. And all things in moderation. But don’t fool yourself into using being in shock as an excuse for falling into old or new destructive addictions, habits or activities, though they may be more tempting than ever. 

Breathe deeply. Exercise. Rest. Drink lots of water. Coffee is ok. Tea would be better. Eat less meat, more beans. More veggies, fewer fruits. Clearly define meal times, rather than grazing or snacking mindlessly. When you eat, focus on the taste and texture of each bite. Chew slowly. Savor the flavor of your food – and the mood of the moment. Sit a minute, or a few, before returning to tasks and activities. 

Yes, I know, this is a lot to ask, especially with the holidays coming up. With these restrictions, you may think that your winter celebrations will be less merry. But, surely, a toxin-free body and clear mind will provide more pure energy for your holiday spirit to shine bright  

And remember – regardless of current events, some very important things have not changed. We are still who we are – with beliefs, values and goals that lead us to continually care – driven by our own deep, intense and constant desire to make life better for all. We are all still us. All One. Moving forward, remind yourself that the only thing in the world you can change is yourself. So, change! Indeed, redouble your efforts of kindness, understanding and compassion in daily interactions with every individual you meet. Be a silent, steady presence wherever you go, and a cheerful friend to strangers and comrades alike. Say nothing. Just be. Just do. Just love.

This is a time of responsibility, of accountability. In your personal annual review, take honest inventory of not just this year, but of your whole lifetime, from a wide and in-depth perspective. Focus not so much on weaknesses, flaws, or whatever you might consider to be mistakes, but more on your strengths and virtues, your efforts and accomplishments. 

Acknowledging your victories and triumphs is empowering and inspiring. Remind yourself that you have chosen the path of a spiritual pilgrim. Now is the time, even in shock, anxiety and/or depression, to give yourself credit for your achievements and aspirations, in a balance of healthy pride and true humility. Revitalized by this dynamic attitude, step boldly, confidently, and gracefully into the coming New Year. Whatever your imitations or circumstances are, or will be, go ahead – radiant and shining as brightly as you can.