Rituals For Resilency

By Dick O'Brien M.A.S.c

The recent attack on the World Trade Center has been a wake up call to many North Americans. It has caused us to reflect and refocus on what is truly important in our daily life.

In the aftermath of this disaster, may people begin to change their attitudes about the challenges of life. I witnessed much less frustration about being in line at an airport. I saw people beginning to realize how fragile life is and choosing to slow down the pace of their day. I spoke with individuals who were rethinking the meaning of traditional holidays and celebrations.

Many people are feeling a real sense of loss, including anger, vulnerability, fear, insecurity and depression. These are normal and expected reactions to such a powerful event. If these emotions begin to immobilize a person or continue unchecked, they may lead to serious personal problems.

The key to this post trauma shock is to transfer your focus away from the event itself and refocus on your personal capability to respond to this difficult and tragic event. You need to shift your attention away from the vulnerability of the moment and more toward your personal resolve to recover.

Often our best comes out during our worst times. Let this end of innocence become the beginning of true wisdom.

The Rituals of Resiliency:

1. Rise early - Greet the day - don't linger.
2. Start your day with gratitude.
3. Exercise your body - creates stamina, flexibility, resiliency and energy.
4. Stretch.
5. Develop a negative free zone (News, criticisms). Stand guard all day.
6. Live in the moment 2 to 3 time a day.
7. Develop some quiet time every day.
8. Do some spiritual reading 15 min a day.
9. Cultivate daily healthy thoughts.
10. Be aware of your bodies fuel needs.

Before I can take good care of any one or any thing I must first take good care of my self"

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