Finding Peace in the Chaos: My Journey Through Stress and Anxiety to Clarity and Calm

Life often throws us into overwhelming situations, leaving us feeling lost and stressed. For a long time, after my stroke, I felt trapped in a storm of anxiety, wondering if I'd live to see the next day. As my brain was healing, the headaches remained a constant and ever-present part of my struggle, frustration, and large mountains to climb before getting to a place where I finally felt like 'me' again.

When I'd go to sleep at night, the headaches would become so severe that I'd lie in bed, sleepy as heck, wondering if I'd get another chance to hug and kiss my boys and my husband the next day. All of these things would occur, not realizing that it was also the start of something - daily habits that would continue for years and still do to this day. I discovered that even through this turmoil, transformative practices were happening in the background that would lead me to a state of clarity and calm, which I desperately needed.

Seeking Solutions

I understood that willpower alone wouldn’t help me defeat these feelings because I had much of it. Instead, I began exploring and, in some cases, re-exploring several strategies to reclaim my peace. I discovered effective coping mechanisms that would become vital tools in my journey.

Walking as a Meditative Practice

One of the first impactful methods I adopted was long, solitary walks. I set aside at least 30 minutes daily to immerse myself in nature. With every step, first with a walker, then a cane, and eventually, walking completely aid-free, I felt a sense of release. The 'new' rhythm of my feet hitting the pavement was almost meditative.

A serene path invites a sense of calm exploration.

Nature enveloped me, providing soothing comfort as I absorbed the beauty around me. Deep breathing helped me unwind, and walking became a way to exercise, clear my mind, pray, and go into my thoughts.

The Freedom of Cycling

I love my bike, so after getting comfortable with walking, I was happy to return to cycling. Riding a bike offered me a liberating sense of freedom. The cool breeze against my skin and the warmth of the sun, combined with the rhythmic motion of pedaling, created a sanctuary for my thoughts.

Now, to say that I didn't have a few falls would be lying; however, cycling turned out to be a different type of meditation for me—it was energetic yet calming. Just 20-30 minutes of cycling elevated my heart rate and boosted my mood, which was super important, reducing fatigue and helping me manage my anxiety.

Bike

The Power of Prayer

While on this journey, I've strengthened and continue to improve my relationship with God, the Universe, and the Creator. Prayer has offered comfort and strength during my recovery from a stroke. While there were days when I felt hopeless, frustrated, and angry, there were also days when I felt hopeful, joyful, and optimistic about my future. Through prayer, I eventually found peace and a sense of connection I never knew I could experience.

A Bible

The Power of Journaling

In addition to physical activities, journaling became another crucial practice on my road to calm. I began writing down my thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a notebook. I've always been interested in journal writing, but this time, it was written from the lens of a stroke warrior, as I like to be called.

Writing acted as a form of therapy for me, and still does. I used all kinds, art therapy, talking therapy, you name it. All I knew was that I wanted to get better. I desired it, so I put in the work to get there! These various forms of therapy provided a safe space to release frustrations, and trust me, I had a lot of them. Some days, I documented the worries clouding my mind; others, I celebrated small victories (gratitude) for completing a walk or reaching a personal goal of finishing the dishes without getting tired.

An open journal inviting reflection and personal insights.

Through journaling, I started recognizing patterns in my thoughts. This practice gave me a clear perspective on the stressors in my life and guided me toward managing them effectively.

Finding Calm in Routine

Establishing a routine that included walking, cycling, and journaling became my anchor during these emotional times. I prioritized these activities, creating a space in my daily schedule dedicated to nurturing my mental health because with it, my world became very dark and bleak.

Mindfulness Techniques

Alongside my physical activities and journaling, I explored mindfulness again. I had long practiced mindfulness and knew its importance, but this time, no business was attached to it like before. This time, mindfulness practice had a different goal—to teach me to observe my thoughts and emotions without judgment, especially in my 'new' normal.

I learned to sit quietly again, letting my mind break from its constant racing. Whenever feelings of anxiety crept in, and they often would, I dedicated a few minutes to focusing on my breath, which helped me tremendously during distressing moments.

The Road to Clarity

As time passed, I noticed a significant shift. The anxiety that once overwhelmed me became more manageable. I cultivated a sense of clarity and calm that I didn’t think was achievable.

Walking, cycling, journaling, and mindfulness were personal recipes for emotional well-being, stability, and peace.

Embracing the Journey

Though the journey has been rocky, I now understand that my experiences—both challenging and empowering—are essential parts of my story. They shape who I am as I continue to heal and grow.

I now focus on celebrating even the smallest successes. With a dedicated approach to self-care and mental wellness, I feel a sense of hope shining brightly at the end of the tunnel. Looking back, I realize how significant this newfound perspective is because I couldn't have imagined it a few years ago.

A Path to Peace

My experience finding peace amidst the chaos was not straightforward—absolutely not! It required patience, vulnerability, and a steadfast commitment to bettering myself.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or frustration, I encourage you to consider practices like walking, cycling, journaling, and mindfulness. No one-size-fits-all solution exists, but you can find what resonates with you.

I also want to remind you that you are not alone. With determination, there is hope for clarity and calm beyond the chaos. I truly believe and want that for you.

Bree xo

#StrokeRecovery #AngerManagement #Frustration #Relief #Journaling #Hope #Positivity #Cycling #Mindfulness #Meditation #Walking #overwhelm #Bible #reflective #prayer #cryingout