There are moments when we feel like we can’t go on. It seems that the whole world is against us, and nothing seems to turn out right. Whatever we do, we come to an impasse. The weight of the world is on our shoulders, and there’s little that we can do to shake it. It’s in these times that we feel naked and vulnerable. There doesn’t seem to be any support around, and we feel lost and alone. Sometimes, there is a numbness that accompanies the experience. We start to shut down and withdraw for protection.

We could be in the throes of inner turmoil. Unwanted thoughts fill our minds. We try to deal with them the best way we know how. We curl up and wait for our minds to clear. Sometimes, this happens excruciatingly slowly, and we can become stuck in a negative thought spiral. We ruminate and worry, and despondency sets in.

When we are low on energy like this, it’s natural to try to resist the downward trajectory. We may, temporarily, feel like all hope is lost. The more we struggle against our situation, the worse it gets. If we embrace these feelings and lean into them, we find that it becomes easier. We must process these emotions before we can carry on. We may have lost our sense of courage and be gripped by anxieties. We should realise that these fears are illusory. It’s rarely as bad as we believe it to be.

There is a light that shines upon us always. Even in our darkest moments, we are surrounded by love. We may not be able to perceive it during instances of torment. If we are feeling depressed, then it is a signal that we need deep rest. Give yourself permission to slow down and tend to yourself. Now is the time to relax and recuperate. It makes no sense to exhaust yourself further by engaging in futile activities.

Concentrate on your own needs and make them a priority. This may seem selfish, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Replenish yourself, and then you will be able to shine your light brighter than before. Remember, this too shall pass.