Building inner resilience vital for facing ongoing quake impacts

“Bravery,” that’s the one word I’d apply to the people of Christchurch states Chris Hight, a highly experienced Auckland counsellor who flew down to support those hit by the earthquake. “As the schools open today, they face another phase of dealing with the aftermath of this tragedy.”

It’s a long walk back to normality and Hight recommends some small yet vital techniques to help people build and maintain resilience. “Sometimes our heads get so full that we need to ‘pull the plug’ and let all the stuff that’s accumulated in our overcrowded brains drain away, so we can get a bit of mind space,” she explains. “This need will be even more pressing given Japan’s current experience, because people need to avoid a potential path of catastrophic thinking.”

She advocates taking a few moments to focus on breathing and if the air isn’t dusty to take some deep, slow breaths. Further, use simple self care strategies such as remembering to do something that rewards you in some way at the end of the day or working week. Consider doing some stretches or taking a bit of exercise and remember to try and eat well. If feasible aim to take some time to think about nonearthquake related things such as reading a book or a magazine, as it helps to give your brain some downtime.

As for convenient external support, it’s always available without the need to travel. There is free phone support such as via http://www.lifeline.org.nz/ plus cost effective paid options to receive expert assistance just using computers from home or work, such as via our online counselling service www.askchris.co.nz and other services such as http://www.aucklandcounselling.com

“It’s so easy to forget to look after yourself. We urge you to take a few moments for you in the midst of the day to day challenges,” states Hight.

ENDS

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