Sometimes a concept comes to me or is inspired by something I've read and it stays on my mind for days. This is one of those concepts. I created about it yesterday and it's still with me today. The sound of birds singing actually has a calming effect on our nerves. We evolved taking our cues from nature. If there was a saber-toothed tiger or some other toothy predator about, the birds kept quiet as a way to not be seen and eaten. As humans we picked up on that. When the birds went quiet, there was danger about, and by understanding that, we were better able to protect ourselves and survive. When the birds were singing, there was no danger. As a person who lives with a chronic anxiety disorder, I'm constantly looking for markers to remind me of my safety. Further, I construct them for myself. (I have a "safe"spot in my house where I can sit with my weighted blanket. I have "safe" and soothing activities like painting, journaling or other artwork. There are even foods and beverages that signal safety in my body--a warm coffee, or an icy drink with electrolytes in it, for instance.) It is therefore fascinating for me to discover that this is something we've done for eons. I wrote a poem the other day about hearing birds singing outside the window and how they reminded me of my own resilience. It's a good time for that. It's a good time to connect to our inner and outer birdsongs. Love yourself first, then love others. If it feels good, you could even sing it out.
Love, Cheri
