This past week, I did the following: almost had a panic attack, distracted myself by watching Schitt's Creek, incessantly checked my phone, kept refreshing my screen, slept, talked to close friends, texted McNair colleagues, stared out the window, did my mindfulness practice, ate a TON of Kit Kats, focused on our kids, listened to scholars, read things to help me find evidence for hope, danced around my office, reveled in the beauty of remaining fall leaves, noticed the morning light and clouds dancing across the sky.

 

I gave myself what I needed. 

 

We talk a lot about discovering ways to take care of ourselves. Each person is different, and we need different things at different times. We especially need to tend to ourselves during times of change and uncertainty. 

 

You're likely in the middle of an intense semester. A lot is swirling about - inwardly and outwardly. I'm finding it hard even going to the grocery store. Small things can sometimes feel really hard. Sometimes we just need to sit with what is and let ourselves be okay in the moment.

 

That's what mindfulness practice is about: learning to pay attention, listening, sitting with what is, acknowledging one's self, breathing, being intentional. Mindfulness can especially come in handy when things are swirling and feel out of control. 

 

Let yourself be however you are in this moment. And then the next moment. And the next. 

 

Find your way to friends. Find your way to practices that ground you. Find your way to whatever it is that you might need right now. Stay focused on your studies because that's important. Remember your North Star (your why) and finish this semester strong. You can do this. 

 

We are here every single day to support you. When you log into our 365 community platform, you can leave a comment and know I will respond. You can leave a comment to express how you're feeling. 

 

You can leave a comment to share your reality in a way that will be a light to others who might be feeling the same way. That's what makes TRIO (and our 365 Mindful Days community) special. We're here together, and we will continue to be here together. 💛