What I have learned from trees

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Trees face so many challenges we seldom consider- like harsh inclement weather, disease, and the struggles of growing in poor and arid soil. Yet, they persist and thrive. Trees bend with the wind and it's that flexibility that allows them to withstand what comes their way.

I am learning from trees.

So, what if, instead of resisting, I bend with the winds of life?

And learn to let the winds of change blow over me without shivering.

Simply, let life come and yield to the changes it brings.

The changes in my body, in my spirit, and my relationships.

There is wisdom in leaning into the hardness of life instead of resisting the change. By adapting to difficulties instead of resisting, I flourish not languish in unhabitable territory.

I have determined to let go.

And like the tree stand singularly.

Here are 3 small steps to develop resilience

1. Maintain Perspective—do not make the circumstance worse by catastrophizing the matter. I mean, do not go into worst-case scenario mode. If you find yourself doing this, try deep breathing (an example is on our Instagram page), grounding techniques, or try thought-stopping (mentally tell yourself "Stop!" when you start to imagine a worst-case scenario outcome).

2. Develop problem-solving skills- write down the problem, give it a name, think of a time you were able to handle a similar problem- what did you do that helped? Repeat those actions to help now.

3. Set small realistic goals - i.e. something achievable in a short time. Want to be healthier- drink 8 glasses of water, break up exercise time into small bursts (30 mins of daily fitness can be achieved in 3 ten-minute intervals).

Hope this helps!