This week, I felt the world bracing. As news of the U.S. election unfolded, the tension was almost palpable—people everywhere holding their breath, waiting to see what would come next. It reminded me of how often we brace ourselves in life, especially when faced with outcomes we can’t control or situations that feel overwhelming. We all know what it feels like to brace, to anticipate an outcome we may not want, to guard ourselves against the unknown.
We brace when we’re waiting for biopsy results or medical test outcomes, wondering what news might come. We brace when the phone rings in the middle of the night or when an elderly parent calls, feeling that wave of dread about what might have happened. We brace when we see a call from the school or an email from HR, wondering if it carries unexpected news. We brace on a turbulent flight, gripping the armrest and preparing ourselves for what might come. And many of us have felt ourselves bracing lately, waiting for the results of an election that carries so much weight and uncertainty.
And sometimes, we brace in personal moments that are even closer to the heart. We brace when we’re around someone whose anger we’ve felt before, watching for that certain expression on their face, or when we hear words like “I don’t mean to…” and wonder what’s coming next. These are moments that make us instinctively protect ourselves, both physically and emotionally, as we hold our breath and steady ourselves for what we fear may come.
Bracing is a natural, human response to what we cannot control. It’s our way of preparing, of steadying ourselves against the unknown. But as I’ve been reflecting, I’ve also realized that while bracing has its place, it isn’t the only way. I’ve found comfort in remembering the Divine order that I believe governs and guards my life. When I remind myself of this, I feel a shift—a sense of peace that allows me to release, to soften, and to believe that all things are ultimately working together for my good.
If you find yourself bracing, feeling the tension and uncertainty of what’s to come, I encourage you to consider these small steps to help ease that grip:
Recognize the Power of Naming: Take a moment to identify what you’re bracing for. Sometimes, naming the specific fear—whether it’s unfavourable news, conflict, or disappointment—helps ease its hold on us. It brings clarity to the feeling and honours the instinct behind it.
Remember There’s a Greater Order at Work: Whatever your beliefs, connect with the idea that there’s a greater order guiding things, one that holds us even when we feel out of control. Trust that even in uncertainty, there is a deeper purpose and that you are supported.
Shift from Rigidity to Flow: Bracing is often about control, about tightening ourselves to withstand the unknown. But imagine if, even in a small way, we could soften. To breathe. To release the need to anticipate everything. This small shift can allow peace to flow in, even in uncertain times.
We all brace when life feels overwhelming, but we also have the capacity to find strength in release. Let’s remind ourselves that even in moments of dread, we can choose trust over control, openness over rigidity, and flow over fear. There’s a deeper strength in knowing that we’re held by something greater, even as we navigate life’s uncertainties.
Here’s to meeting every moment with courage, resilience, and trust.