Last week, I talked about the chaos that has been my life for the past couple of months. I will admit, in my life when things get hard, my spirituality is often the first thing that slips and is left behind while I focus on taking care of everything else. However, this time, I tried to keep my practice going, even when it was challenging. Below are a few tips that worked for me, and hopefully may help you out if you ever need them:
It's ok if it isn't perfect! I often catch myself avoiding doing things because I am worried it isn't good enough. Taking any action at all is ok, even if it isn't up to your own expectations.
You don't have to use words. When I was struggling, there were many times that I wanted to reach out into the world for help, but I didn't know what to say. Instead, I would light a candle, and just sit in that moment and feel whatever I was feeling. No elaborate prayers. No long rituals...simply existing in the silence.
Do whatever feels right for you. There are not any rules or regulations on the "right" way to practice your spirituality, especially when times are hard. You have to do what works for you in that time and space. If doing a ritual feels good, do it. If taking a walk in a park is what you're after, go for it.
Some things may not work, and that's ok. If you are performing spiritual workings, or saying prayers reaching out for help, sometimes things may not go as planned. Sometimes the universe knows better than we do and may guide us in an unexpected direction. That doesn't mean you've done things "wrong." Don't let a lack of response or reaction discourage you.
Ask for help! Sometimes, we really can't do everything on your own. Reach out to friends and family who are open to listening about your struggles. Reach out to Pagan clergy for tips or tricks. And if those don't feel like options, or if that isn't enough for you, please seek help from a mental health professional.
It is OK to take a break! Genuinely, if you are overwhelmed and exhausted and feel like you can't do spiritual stuff right now, take a break. Put down the lessons, skip a ritual, and pick things back up when you're ready. There is no shame in needing a break.
I know many of these things seem obvious, or maybe won't work for you, but these are the things I told myself over the past two months. If you have suggestions that can be added to this list, I'd love to hear them. Take care of yourselves! <3