Coping Through Crises by Connecting With Others (Page 4)

women consoling elder lady

Another effective way to reopen our heart feelings is by offering kindness and compassionate support to others or volunteering to help others in need, though we are in need ourselves. Acts of care, kindness, gratitude, and compassion can make a big difference. These acts of care are behaviors of our spiritual heart and provide a wholeness benefit to ourselves and others. Research has shown that care, compassion, and authentic connection with others reduce stress and release beneficial chemicals that balance and revitalize our systems: mental, emotional, and physical. Practicing these and other behaviors of the heart should be at the top of our stress maintenance intentions.

Engaging in caring about others and offering emotional support especially helps to reopen your heart, which increases your fortitude and emotional balance. Whether you laugh together or cry together, there is often tremendous beneficial release. When people gather to support each other, the energy of the collective whole multiplies the benefit to the individual. It’s known that collective energetic cooperation can increase intuitive guidance and effective solutions for problems at hand. When a group of people are “in their hearts,” and not just their minds, the collective support helps to lift their spirits, which in turn releases stress buildup and anxiety overload. When the heart reopens, self-security and confidence can gradually return.

Be patient with the process. Even small acts of kindness and compassion can make a big difference. During the holiday season is a good time to consciously manage your energies. Focus on developing more sincere connections with others above all else. It can make the difference between a harried and stressful season and the most heartfelt holiday ever.

Understanding the power of your emotions is vital for having a fulfilling, healthy life. Click to receive this free e-booklet, The Power of Emotion.

More Stress Relief:
Decreasing Drama in Your Life
Tips to Reduce Your Stress Reactions to the News
Breathing Through Your Heart

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Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Fi T.

5:30AM PST on Jan 4, 2013

We're not alone

January 4
send a green star

Marianne G.

11:10AM PST on Dec 5, 2012

Thanks for sharing.

December 5
send a green star

Norma V.

10:23AM PST on Dec 5, 2012

'No man is an island...'

Joy S.

4:19AM PST on Dec 5, 2012

I have a wonderful group of women friends who can share everything, the good, the bad and the ugly. We called ourselves "the Sistahs" and just have to get together every so often to share. Thanks for the reminder! It is time for some more "Sistah time".

Karen R.

4:14AM PST on Dec 5, 2012

"I get by with a little help from my friends."

Tanya W.

1:26AM PST on Dec 5, 2012

Thanks

Summerannie M.

11:59PM PST on Dec 4, 2012

An excellent article. Thanks!