Staying Focused & Coping in the Midst of Crisis

Eight days ago today, I left Houston with a week’s worth of clothes, my important personal and business documents, and hope & courage tucked away in my pockets. I was not sure of what was to come of the news alerts, but I knew that it was in my best interest to leave.

As a Lousisana native, I have been prepared for and accustomed to the hurricane drills. Some storms we rode out and others we evacuated. I felt something different about this one, took heed to weather alerts, and took refuge with some family.

I never imagined that I would have a Deja Vu moment. In 2005, I watched my hometown under water from a sofa in my dorm living area. Here one week ago, I watched my other hometown under water from a sofa in my cousin’s living room. While watching, I was grateful that I left but also saddened by what I saw. Days later, I am glad to report that family and friends are safe and accounted for. I eagerly await the right and safe moment to return, but that hasn’t stopped me from helping. In an effort to intentionally build bridges, below are organizations in Houston and in New Orleans that you can assist with during this initial phase of Hurricane Harvey relief.

We never know what distractions, or unexpected interruptions , life will bring us. We can do our best to prepare but there are some times that we are not ready. Despite preparation skills, it’s the aftermath that one has to live through.

Staying focused in the midst of a crisis can be a challenge. You may not have had to deal with Hurricane Harvey but you have had challenges in your day to day life. I’d like to share with you a few things that can help you focus and cope in the midst of a crisis or daily distractions.

Rest & Self-Care
- A crisis brings fatigue and rapid change. With stress levels at a high, it is important to rest when you’re able to. After the volunteering and assistance, make sure you take time to take care of yourself.
Laugh
- Laughter is good for the soul. It is also good for your health. A good laugh activates and releases your stress response and soothes tension.
Gratitude
- In the midst of what has transpired in Texas or what you are dealing with in your own life, it is always helpful to find something to be grateful for. It helps you focus on the good.

Life is full of things that hit us at different times. While it may be a challenge, you can stay focused and refocUS in the midst of it.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Sunday, September 3, 2017 9:30 CST – Coping During a Crisis Virtual Event

[Periscope @ashleym3710]

November 2017 – reFocus: Coming Back from a Setback Event (Preorder available here.)

In Houston

GLORY Organization – Accepting donations
9536 Richmond Ave., Suite A, Houston, TX 77063
P: (713) 213-4112

Become the Bridge Foundation – Accepting donations
E: Relief@thebridgeover.com

HD Cares – Accepting monetary donations for community supplies

In New Orleans

GLORY Organization – Accepting donations
2034 Agriculture St., M-F, 8:00 AM -3:00 PM

Yoga Krewe – Accepting clothing donations for children
2122 Belle Chasse Hwy, Gretna, LA
P:(504) 813-1839

NOLA Palms Event Hall – Accepting donations
5961 Bullard Ave., New Orleans, LA #9
P: (504) 874-5057

On the Geaux Wet Towels – Donating the famous “Bath in a Bag”
P:(678) 698-7677

iamashleym.com