THE DOLDRUMS, according to Wikipedia is the INTERTROPICAL CONVERGENCE ZONE known by sailors as the doldrums or the calms because of the monotonous windless weather it is the area where the northeast and southwest trade winds converge.It encircles Earth near the thermal equator though its specific position varies seasonally.
Many friends, and indeed myself have felt that kind of monotony during the days between Christmas and the new year I wonder is this a natural phenomenon or a type of ‘blueness’due to the time of year and remembering our losses, the absentees at the table which have taken on a new meaning this year due to the pandemic .I do know that some have been brought to the very edge with the monotony and the unusual quietness As a people we are often not good with change and silence, indeed we are unnerved by it we question what might happen within it, might we have to face some difficult feelings, or if in company, what might or companion asked us?
I sometimes think we do not stick the period well because we get anxious there will be more losses which will then affect the holidays every year.This year its thoughts about the virus and its behaviour, having ‘the neck’ just to change itself when we get to know how to manage it wouldn’t you like to just put your foot on it and crush it like a bug?Is that it? we are restricted and have to find an outlet for our anger at all of this, its almost like that creature is laughing at us.I’m reminded of a young relative who used to play hide and seek with me, and of course when he was young, he hadn’t quite grasped that one didn’t always hide in the same place, but when I found him he was the same wee pet.My point is this creature keeps changing but the scientists are unto his antics they bring us ‘hope’ just like the Christmas story.
Could it be that being in the doldrum period can be a rest an easing of stress as long as we can do what we like and not feel restricted.In my work with traumatised patients I found it important to ensure that they had a way of escape from the room and that we discussed this together so that the patient could run if they wished ‘no restrictions’ except for their safety.This raises the question have we forgotten its the small little things we do as part of life which are hurting us a lot, its the wee coffee with a mate, the chat with the neighbour,making the surprise visit during this doldrum period was something we used to do.
I find myself thinking it would be good to have a tantrum, to be two years old and kick and scream, and drum my heals on the floor. Would I get branded as ‘low class’ or worst still ‘As mad as a hatter’ whatever lets try some venting.
Find a safe spot in your home
Choose some relaxing music
Place your feet firmly on the floor so that you know the earth is holding you.
Close your eyes
Breath deeply in through your nose and out through your mouth
Try to follow your breath throughout your body it will highlight troubled spots then stop and breathe into that spot after a moment continue until you reach your feet and can sense again that feeling of ‘Earth’
Rest for a moment and allow yourself to relax
Open your eyes and return to your work.
If your anxiety is very strong and affected your life and that of your family members please consult your GP.
Keep safe!
aoibheann thoughtful reflections 