Yesterday, as I held my last client sessions before hunkering down in preparation for Hurricane Milton’s enormous impact on our state, I noticed a common thread woven through each conversation—anxiety and a deep sense of unsettledness. Although these feelings were expressed in different ways, the underlying current of unease was palpable.
One client said, “My husband is a police officer. He’s working the storm today and tomorrow. Domestic violence calls are always worse during a hurricane—people are stuck in their homes, drinking, fighting. I’m filled with anxiety every time we face a storm because I worry about him.”
Another shared, “I don’t know what’s going on with me. I was just at a wedding full of family drama, and we ended our trip early. Then my cycle was completely off. I just feel so out of sorts right now. What’s wrong with my body?”
A third revealed, “I feel so unsettled. I thought moving to Europe would be the answer, but now that I’m back, everything feels the same. I’m still unsure of everything. I feel so much unrest.”
And one more vulnerably admitted, “I don’t get what I need from my husband. I look at other couples and feel envious. I guess I just feel so alone.”
As I listened to these stories, holding space for each individual who felt safe enough to open up, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much of this anxiety and restlessness is influenced by the external world around us. Flash flood warnings and tornado alerts blared throughout the day. Everyone was preparing for potential power outages from the hurricane. Storm aside, the political climate is also tense right now, and tragedies around the world continue to weigh heavily on us.
It’s easy to believe that the anxiety we experience stems solely from personal circumstances—family drama, relationship struggles, discontentment. While these things certainly contribute, we must also be mindful of how much we are absorbing from the energy of external events. Our bodies feel the impact, often without us even realizing it, and this can manifest in physical discomfort—irregular cycles, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, even disease.
We often think we’re alone in our experience, but the truth is, many of us are carrying the weight of both our personal lives and the collective energy of the world, and it takes a toll on us.
The unrest we feel isn't always just our own—it’s a reflection of the external chaos.
In moments like these, especially when we are called to step into roles during times of crisis, it’s crucial to manage our own anxiety and protect our peace. The roles we play—whether providing physical assistance, offering emotional support, or simply being present—are all vital. But we cannot show up fully if we are overwhelmed by the energy we’ve absorbed.
So, if you’re feeling anxious, unsettled, or experiencing abnormal physical symptoms, take a moment to reflect on what might be affecting you—not just personally, but from the world around you.
I’ve felt it myself, which is why my Insight Timer app is the first thing I listen to in the morning and last thing at night. It’s also why I recently turned a spare room in my house into a sanctuary—a space where I can escape the chaos, reset, and find peace. Our external space often mirrors our internal state, and clearing that clutter brought me clarity I didn’t realize I was missing.
After creating that space, I felt my creativity return almost instantly. I sat down and mapped out the plan for my next podcast series, and now I’m sitting here writing this blog, feeling grateful as I look out the window, thankful that the homes around me still have power. My thoughts are with those who weren’t so fortunate, and my heart is feeling extra for my clients who are navigating their own unsettled feelings right now.
In turbulent times, remember: it’s okay to take care of yourself, even while taking care of others. This is how we stay grounded and strong enough to fulfill the roles we are called to fill.
As I sit here, I’m aware of the mix of emotions I’ve felt—gratitude and peace, now that the storm has passed and my loved ones and I are safe, but also a sense of guilt and unrest. While I’ve weathered the storm without harm, I know many are facing a much harsher reality right now. My thoughts turn to those tirelessly dedicating their time, energy, and resources to recovery efforts for those affected by Hurricane Helene, which devastated parts of the country less than two weeks ago. I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t had harsh thoughts toward myself, thinking, “You’re not doing enough. You should be in North Carolina or the west coast of Florida, on the ground, helping.”
I’ve had to remind myself of something recently, and I want to share it with you as well. When tragedy strikes, everyone takes on a unique role, and each role looks different for every individual.
No role is more valuable than another, though it’s easy to compare how others show up and feel like our contribution isn’t as important. However, for those who need the specific support each role offers, it is incredibly vital. By each of us stepping into the role we’re best suited for, we help foster a strong sense of community and provide the well-rounded support needed during a crisis.
I’ve compiled a summary of what I’ve observed to be the various roles in which we step into as needed.
Group 1: First Responders
Role: Those who arrive at the scene promptly to provide immediate assistance, medical aid, and physical relief. They are trained professionals or volunteers equipped to handle emergencies, offering crucial support in the initial moments of a tragedy.
Group 2: Emotional Supporters
Role: Individuals who provide emotional support and hold space for those affected by the tragedy, both directly and indirectly. They offer empathy, compassion, and a safe environment for processing emotions.
Group 3: Community Mobilizers
Role: Organizers who rally community resources, coordinate relief efforts, and facilitate communication and logistics during and after the tragedy. They mobilize volunteers, gather donations, and provide organizational support to ensure effective response and recovery.
Group 4: Advocates and Advisors
Role: Experts or advocates who offer guidance, legal advice, and advocacy for the rights and needs of those affected by the tragedy. They may provide legal aid, financial advice, or advocacy services to help individuals navigate the aftermath and seek justice or compensation if necessary.
As I reflected on these different roles, it brought me a sense of peace, easing the discomfort I felt about sitting in a comfortable office, holding space for someone emotionally, while others are in hurricane-stricken areas ensuring access to clean water and other basic survival needs. I was reminded that each role, while different, must not be downplayed.
What truly matters is that we step into the role we are meant to fill, fully and with the capacity we have in that moment.
When we do this, we are living our purpose, contributing exactly where we are needed.
I was also reminded that it’s okay to protect our peace and manage our own anxiety during turbulent times. Prioritizing our well-being doesn’t make us any less of a responder, nor does it make us selfish. In fact, it allows us to show up more fully for those who rely on our support.
During times of unrest, give yourself permission to breathe deeply, nourish your body, soothe your nervous system in the ways it needs, and say no to things you don’t have the capacity for.
So, friends, family, and readers, as life unfolds today, I encourage you to give yourself grace. Remember that life is happening for you, offering chances to practice compassion for both yourself and the world around you.
Take a moment and ask yourself: “How can I fully feel all of this—no matter how big or difficult—with the depth it deserves, while recognizing that even uncomfortable emotions hold beauty because they reveal untapped potential? And how can I hold space for others while still honoring my own needs?”
Let those questions guide you. The answers will come in their own time.
Wishing peace to all in these challenging moments.
Heather
Comments