I get this question a lot: how do I deal with feeling anxious about news of terrible things in the world?

I totally understand this, because I get overwhelmed by the news, too. I feel lost and helpless and angry. I get tempted to numb out and avoid the way I’m feeling - because it’s so awful. But when I can sit with those difficult feelings and breathe through the discomfort, it helps that pain to dissipate a little. I remember that I’m stronger than I think I am. Then, I can do the hard work of trying to make a difference in the world.

Here is a meditation that I recorded literally ten minutes after learning about the latest shooting. If I sound like I was a little shaky, that’s because I was. I felt sad and ungrounded. But this meditation is what I most needed, and maybe it’s what you need, too.

If you’re interested in more of this, check out Insight Timer. It’s a free app with tons of great guided meditations, music, and courses on mindfulness. Search for my name for a list of meditations that I’ve recorded, or listen online.

Wishing you all peace, my friends.