GUEST POST by Polly Banerjee, LPC.
In an era of constant news updates, heated debates, and the never-ending scroll of information, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The weight of divisiveness—whether political, social, or cultural—can seep into our nervous systems, leaving us dysregulated, anxious, or emotionally exhausted.
So how do we engage with the world without losing ourselves in the flood of information and tension? How do we care without burning out?
The key is self-regulation. By grounding ourselves first, we can meet the world from a place of steadiness rather than reactivity.
Homebase: Returning to the Body, the Breath, and the Present Moment
When overwhelm takes over, our nervous system shifts into survival mode—fight, flight, or freeze. We may find ourselves caught in endless online arguments, shutting down emotionally, or feeling powerless leading to profound loneliness. The first step toward clarity is recognizing when we’re dysregulated and returning to Homebase—our internal refuge of steadiness and presence.
Practices to Regulate the Nervous System:
1. Orienting to the Present
Look around your space. Name five things you see, four things you hear, three things you can touch, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This simple practice shifts your focus from overwhelm to the present moment.