This week is hard on everyone. When you go online, you see thousands of opinions, posts about the hostages, antisemitic attacks, and people searching for the right information. It can be overwhelming to look at the news or to see what your friends' opinions are on October 7th or Israel today. Here are my tips and tricks on how to ground yourself when it feels like the world is spinning.

1. Physically Ground Yourself: This can be breathing exercises like the box method if you’re overwhelmed, yoga, going on a walk, or literally lying on the ground (shoutout Talia Weinshank).
2. Talking it Out: Studies show that if you talk to a friend for 12 minutes, your perspective can change and reduce stress. Talking to a safe person can give you the information you actually need and separate your opinions from the media’s.
3. Going Off the Grid: Taking time away from your phone can give you time to process information and decide what to make of situations. When watching videos and looking at posts, it’s easy to get frustrated, but putting your phone down can give you clarity on what you believe in.
4. Surrounding Environments: Surround yourself with positivity and those who think alike. This can be Hebrew school, BBYO, friends who show up for you, etc.
5. Hugs! The best comfort to receive is a hug!

When scrolling, it can feel dooming, but know that you have a support system to lean on. During the next few weeks, the news will be showing all different points of view about the politics surrounding October 7th and the Middle Eastern conflict, but know that you can step away. Remember, you are not alone.