These pistachio and dried cherry energy bites are our cramming snack. We haven’t done one single math problem from our summer math packets, so we’re making up for lost time. Honestly, I think the reason why I haven’t had the kids partake in “formal” learning is because I have PTSD from the last 8 weeks of “homeschool.” If you’re a mom of a school-aged child, you’re thinking a lot about how you’re going to be handling August. And, it’s probably causing you some…worry.

Worrying-Better

My plan? Learn how to worry…better. So, I consulted my favorite therapist, Pattie Cashman, (while mindfully eating a pistachio and dried cherry energy bite), of course. Pattie reminded me that worrying isn’t all bad, and there are ways we can “worry better.” She also reminded me to be aware of how “attached” I am to achieving to comfort and security.

“When our desire for the comfort of security and confidence turns into a requirement, it will drive a great deal of our worries, fears, self-criticism and disappointment. Why? Because the world does not comply with our wishes.”

So, how can we better deal with worry? Here are a few worrying-better strategies:

Postpone Worry

Don’t pull it closer or push it away.
Come up with a set time, length of time and place to do all your worrying.
Start with 15 minutes.
If a worry comes up outside of that time, write it down in your “worry note” page on phone.

Questioning Control

Try the “questioning control exercise” When you worry, ask yourself if you worry is something you can or can’t control.

Attention Training

Worrying is incompatible with being present. Taking part in mindful practices such as meditation or simply noticing your breath during the day can help calm your mind and lower stress-related hormones.

The last four months and apparent future bring the potential for worry. Self-care practices have never been more important. Adequate sleep, quiet time, exercise + healthy eating i.e., energy-providing snacks like these pistachio and dried cherry energy bites are certainly examples of that act.
Check out our other energy bite recipes:
Vanilla Cookie Bliss Bites
Hemp Cocoa Energy Bites
Print