Did you know that International Peace Day is on September 21st this year? A day focused on peace is probably what many of us need. The world is in a constant flux of change and there are plenty of circumstances that are cause for concern. In the midst of the chaos, it is essential that we focus on and celebrate peace.
A great way of bringing more peace into society is to focus first on feeling safe in your body, especially as you focus on your recovery. The more people who build inner peace, the more calmness and stability we have to offer ourselves and one another! Keep reading to learn ways to feel safe in your body and honor International Peace Day.
International Day of Peace
The observation of International Peace Day is recognized globally on September 21st and was established in 1981. The date has been set by the United Nations to create space to grow ideals of peace across the world by having 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.
This year’s theme is “End racism. Build peace.” The United Nations shared the premise for the theme, “Achieving true peace entails much more than laying down arms. It requires the building of societies where all members feel that they can flourish. It involves creating a world in which people are treated equally, regardless of their race.”
This theme is very close to the heart of SagePoint IOP’s mission and value of inclusion.
“We strive to provide a welcoming environment grounded in fairness, a celebration of differences, and recognition of diverse backgrounds and abilities.” - Caroline Bentley LMFT, SagePoint IOP Program Director
We need to care for the peace of all people in order to create meaningful change in our world.
Building Inner Peace
It can be overwhelming to think about how to make positive waves in our society. What is important to remember is that we first must take care of our bodies. We cannot control what news story comes up on social media or how another person is going to act on public transportation. This state of uncertainty can lead to chronic stress and cause us to respond on impulse in fear or irritation.
Luckily, learning how to bring calm and a sense of safety to the body can help us better manage stressors in our lives.
Feeling Safe in Your Body
Firstly, what does it mean to feel safe in your body? When we use this phrase, what we mean is utilizing many different ways to regulate the nervous system so that the mind is able to be responsive instead of reactive. It is in this state that we can identify our needs and problem solve more clearly.
We do not need perfect worldly conditions to feel safe in the body. This is a skill that—when practiced— can help create more ideal conditions within us no matter our external circumstances.
Ideas for Safety and Peace Within
There are so many ways to explore ways to build a sense of peace in the body. Some of these techniques can help cultivate relaxation at the moment, whereas other suggestions have a cumulative effect of doing them daily. See if there are one or two things you may want to try to add to your routine this week to observe International Peace Day.
Mindful Movement: This could look like walking, dancing, yoga, or your favorite type of exercise. When you are using your body, notice how each area is feeling. Sense your muscles and test your flexibility. When you are doing this, do you notice if there is something your body needs, like a deeper stretch or a new move?
Mantras and Affirmations: What we tell ourselves daily impacts how we feel and behave. Saying to yourself daily “I am safe in my body” or “I am able to feel peace” can help to foster the experience of peacefulness in your nervous system.
Breath Work: Making time for slow, intentional breathing can help signal to the brain that we are feeling safe. Try ‘square breathing’ by breathing in for four seconds, holding the breath for four seconds, breathing out for four seconds, and holding again for four seconds. Repeat this for a couple of cycles.
Create Something: Creativity helps us to express our feelings in a new way. Drawing, painting, writing, singing, and inventing can be empowering ways to explore your inner story.
Practice Gratitude: Taking the space daily to consider what you are grateful for in the world can be a helpful reminder of what is good. Research has shown that practicing gratitude helps relieve people from difficult emotions.
Explore Anti-Racism Resources: In honor of the theme for this year’s International Peace Day, consider exploring resources to learn more about how to address racism. The more we are educated on how to help create equality, the more able we are to handle difficult moments.
SagePoint IOP is observing International Peace Day on September 21st. As we strive for global peace, let’s first explore how to build safety in the body. With substance abuse and mental health concerns, you may need additional support learning how to feel safe in your body. If you or a loved one is suffering with addiction, please reach out today to learn more about our services.
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