Wilting To Heal

When we face tough times or challenges seem insurmountable, our usual response is to stay positive and keep going. While that’s generally good advice, there are moments when it’s okay to “wilt.” Sometimes, it’s actually beneficial to take a step back and let yourself feel tired or overwhelmed. I’ve learned a lot about wilting to heal this year.

One of my plant loving friends shared an experience about flowers in her garden that illustrates this idea. In early spring, some flowers wilted after a frost, and my friend thought they were gone. Surprisingly, when the sun returned, the same flowers came back to life. It turns out they hadn’t died but had deliberately wilted to conserve energy. Like those flowers, we might need to draw inward, conserve our energy, and take a break from trying to be outwardly strong or positive.

Wilting To Heal

Imagine giving yourself permission to feel whatever emotions you’re experiencing—whether it’s sadness, confusion, anger, or numbness—without immediately trying to change or fix them. Here are some practical ways that I’ve discovered to wilt!

1. Rest: Cancel non-essential plans, stay close to home, take naps, and engage in activities that calm your nervous system. Consider getting more sleep by going to bed earlier or waking up later.
2. Eat Comforting Foods: Consume nourishing, easy-to-digest foods. Comforting, home cooked meals can provide a sense of warmth and well-being.
3. Seek Support: Connect with safe people for attention and affection. Ask for hugs if they make you feel good. If physical connection isn’t possible, reach out over the phone or through video calls. Consider activities like massage or acupuncture for self-care.
4. Limit News Consumption: Take a break from the news, or find a way to stay informed that doesn’t add to your stress.
5. Choose Calming Media: Consume media that relaxes you, whether it’s comedies, children’s movies, puzzles, or soothing books.

By allowing yourself to “wilt” in these ways, you’re giving yourself the time and space to recharge. Trust that when the circumstances are right, you’ll regain your energy and bloom once again.

This is Day 48  of My 66-day Journey of Healing Through Writing and Sharing.