There are days when the world feels like a carnival ride, too loud and too fast and not actually very fun at all. Not like the posters promised, Come join the fun! Admissions, Games, Concessions, Prizes! As a child, I would have stayed on the ride no matter what. For one reason or another, I wouldn’t have had it in me to leave the circus. As an adult, I raise my hand instead. I politely challenge the ways things are set up. I choose to walk away, and to lead a softer life. If you’re standing in the middle of turbulence right now—by circumstance or by choice—please know that I’ve felt your pain. And, I’ve curated an “anti-overwhelm kit” for you. A curated list of beautiful tools for the soul—ones that don’t shout, but whisper. Crafted for modern life but rooted in something slow, true, and human. With it being mental health awareness month, I thought this was an appropriate time to share the list:

Finding the good in the mornings.

I am not inherently a morning person. In fact, I have a seizure disorder predicated mostly around how much sleep I get. Still, there is always good I can focus on. When I wake up every morning, I place both feet on the rug beside my bed and whisper to myself, “It’s going to be a great day!” It sounds cheesy, but I heard a doctor raving about this idea a year ago and it’s proved itself to me since then. Apparently, once we declare this statement, our brains are then automatically wired to find the good throughout the day to validate that statement. Try it out for yourselves!

Daily affirmations with my daughters.

Recently, I added this daily affirmation mirror chart to our playroom. It’s been a natural addition to the routine, as if we’ve always done this exercise together. Because of this new tool—which doubles as a charming piece of home decor—I’m noticing more confidence and warmth from both of my girls toward themselves in the mornings. A living reminder of the importance of good mental health and God’s grace. Pick up a daily affirmation mirror chart for your home here.

• Moodnotes. If you’re not a paper-journal-kind-of-person, this minimalist app will be your new friend. It’s a simple way to support daily self-awareness without digital overwhelm.
• Light Therapy. Sunlight is a natural mood-booster, making me feel more vibrant and positive. I try to get outside as much as possible, even something as simple as enjoying my coffee outside, greeting the day. Other forms of light therapy are useful, especialy if you live somewhere less sunny. Or if you suffer from seasonal depression. This budget-friendly lamp is a great addition to an indoor office or kitchen.
• Scripture & Prayer Journaling. For me, scripture isn’t just about doctrine—it’s about anchoring in meaning, perspective, and peace. Pairing Bible reading with a prayer journal becomes a sacred rhythm, offering both spiritual centering and emotional clarity. Artful books like this invite refelction without overwhelm.
• Virtual Therapy. A less invasive form of counseling than in-person, but you still get all of the benefits. If you’re longing to talk to a professional who is unbiased and trained to help, please reach out to a counselor. At Intentional Counseling, we have several knowledgable and caring individuals you could meet with via Zoom.
• Sonic Therapy. Apple Music’s $10 monthly fee is worth it for the playlists. Positive playlists are on repeat at my house and in my car like “Creative Focus,” “Christian Workout,” “and “Sound Therapy.”
• Yoga with Adriene offers free, accessible flows that feel like exhale. Thirty minutes on the mat can change the course of your day.
• Botanical Calm. This spray is proven to reduce stress via the limbic system. Less cortisol, fewer spiraling thoughts, more calm.

 

Because our thoughts shape our feelings, which impact our actions, it’s necessary to foster a loving mindset toward ourselves and others. Let this toolkit be your quiet rebellion. Keep these tools close, not as cures, but as companions. Let them be proof that softness can be a strength, that tending to your mind can be as simple as turning down the volume and listening inward. The world can wait. You don’t have to rush.

Cheering for you,

Ciara Laine