@@cliveramsbotty6077 I use the internet to source my information from a limitless number of independent small content creator's, which is why all the Intel suggests there will be a cyber attack coming to shut the system down as too many people are turning away from the indoctrination and sourcing the truth for themselves.
@@cliveramsbotty6077 If you want to releave the stress you get from the news. You need to realise that even if you see ant talk to but a few people a day you will have conversations about the most important news. Therefore you dont need to wach the news at all (I have found and with me a lot of others) the most important news will reach you, and in a much less impactfull way, releaving your stress. Realise thed whenever you hear the news, its a rare occurense that you can have an influense on it.
My wife died on Tuesday. I've taken complete avoidance of any news since as I don't have any mental space in order to cope with it. Thank you for this video. It helped. Much love to all of my beautiful brothers and sisters out there. Stay strong x
I am a veteran, and I got home back in 1977. And to this day, old feelings make their presence known on occasion, and if I let them, these feelings can and do trigger old memories I'd rather forget.
My strategy is to remind myself that it happenened to an early younger version of the person that I am today. It has made me stronger for getting through it.
Thank you for this! It's just the sort of kick up the arse I needed to get out of the rut. I got out yesterday on the bike into the country side, was a guilt free ride and I was able to absorb the environment, totally took me away from everything. This morning, I started hitting that 'I'm not interested' button on YT today against all the war news as I could instantly feel myself going back into the rut. Also, totally agree on journaling! The book "mind journal: this book will make you stronger" was a great introduction to journaling and I would highly recommend it :)
Thank you Nick. Years ago i was traveling through India, i saw a man sat by the path in little but rags. He smiled as i approached, and and i sat for while . He said that he was a Sadhu, (Hindu holy man. ) He gestured that i looked troubled.. ...then said something that has stayed with me forever.Nag Panchaya... Later i returned to my hostel... I asked a man to translate it.... "Be a porter at the gates of your mind" .... I have tried to ,every day since.
Thanks again Nick 👍 forgot to say that i will carry that phrase on my next big walk Two moors way across Devon and Somerset in 3 weeks time . ATVB2U and yours Scott Somerset
Great talk Nick ! This isn't the first time that the ugliness of war has been recorded, but this is the first time when people can actually see it LIVE. I've not seen combat, but have responded to a lot of violent deaths. I wasn't addicted to the live war news, rather I wanted to hear what the leaders of our respective countries had to say. And inevitably the news would go "live" to Kiev etc... after seeing a family of 4 get taken out by a mortar shell "live", that was it for me. And this also brings back the sage words of my former commanding officer who's words to the news junkies were "how is your life to be made any better by constantly watching and hearing all the bad news?". I can't see any benefits to any of it. We don't have to be callous or insensitive to other people's plight, but we can't let affect us to the point where it's harmful to us.
Thanks so much for this. I have anxiety disorder along with autism which makes me absorb more details than the average person, which has been very overwhelming. Because of a personal situation that is already causing me a lot of pain and trauma, all the news about Ukraine has pushed me to the limits of my processing power. It's hard not to feel guilty for not caring more about Ukraine or for wanting to switch off from it all. Thank you for saying that it's ok to let the war go in our minds and to prioritise our own pain and trauma first.
Good talk Nick, The quick about me :22 LEO, with 7 years on the Bomb Squad. I want to say to all that stress and panic are multiplied when we start the day with more bad news. If any is suffering from PTSD please find/ask for help. If the first person you talk with doesn't work, that's okay. Keep looking! It took me three times to find the right one. Don't start the day with electronics, and don't end the night with them. The Sun rises and sets slowly and we should do the same.
Don't start the day with electronics, and don't end the night with them. Unless you work in the electronics repair business. But it's always coffee first and beer last for me ;)
I must admit seeing some of the footage reminded me of my time.I did bosnia twice and Kosovo.again in Europe,reduced to tears through frustration that this is happening again
Hi Nick. I've just subscribed to your channel and I have to say, I can't get enough of it. Not only are your lessons, tips and advice well presented and I'm learning much, but I must also applaud you for your honesty when it comes to mental health. It's a tough subject especially for men, as a sufferer it's refreshing to hear a "blokey bloke" saying it's ok to cry. As for my tips to avoid mental stress. I don't watch TV, I don't read newspapers, I limit my access to social media. And the phone goes away a couple of hours before bed, preferably into another room.
I’ve worked in Ukraine and have a personal connection. My old team are still there and there’s been at least one casualty. Being unable to do something was stressful but I’ve found a way of contributing with voluntary work for fundraising plans for bomb disposal there. Hopefully I can get back in there to help tidy up.
Thanks for this! I can’t even imagine what PTSD feels like but I struggle with anxiety and depression. Your perspective on mental health and the outdoors has been SO great for me. I’ve been trying to force myself to ignore my instinct to crawl in a hole and instead get out into the woods and learn new skills. Your content has been a huge encouragement for that so…. THANKS! I appreciate your willingness to be transparent.
This, is probably one of the most amazing videos you have ever posted Nick. I am a Brit, living in Poland, and to give perspective, I am probably as close to danger where I live, as you are to me. That said, you are 100% spot on in your observation of the narrative. You and I can only control our own attitude and actions, nothing else. You and your family are amazing and totally inspiring. thank you x
Thats amazing, I'm lucky to have not seen or experienced many of the things your subscribers have but I do get anxious and the way you present the coping strategies and talk about it is really helpful. Thanks.
I find watching steel forging to make amazing swords and knives works best for me to calm down. Watching how many times the steel is folded and forged is the best part.
Great comments form you Nick. I really appreciate that you are creating awareness reg our unhealthy habits of media consumption and whatnot could do to us. One point to add: I find the major challenge not so much in the practises throughout the day once I’m aware of my unhealthy ones. The challenge in my opinion is before that: esp when it comes to questions of survival or those we deem relevant to be that way (or get them fed in that way by the media to sell clicks) our brain acts based on system 1, the “auto, fast” brain. ( referring here to D Kahmemann) so a good practise of mindfulness is essential for me to even be aware when I slip into bad habits. I think your mentioning of gaining perspective serves a similar purpose. Learning this kind of self awareness keeps me sane even in critical situations
Completely agree with your thoughts and advice in this video. I too use nature and the outdoors as a natural stress reliever and I can also appreciate how the constant negative news can darken our mood. Personally I find it far more tolerable to access news by reading it rather rather than watching it and I also try to access the written news through more balanced outlets. Your thoughts on being kind are so true and I’ve come to appreciate that by being kind to others we also being kind to ourselves. One last thing that I try to remember is that although the horrors being inflicted in Ukraine are so overwhelming, it’s probably important to realise that as a whole the world is generally a far safer and more compassionate place than at any time in living memory. Keep up the valuable work Nick, you’re a good man.
Getting out there in the great outdoors is such a good feeling. Life is just too busy, so connected through phones and the internet, the wilderness is the only real rest we can get. Thank you for these great videos, they’re calming and inspire me to get out there.
Couldn’t agree more Nick. Fortunately I don’t suffer from PTSD or much else. I’m a regular guy making way through life but we all have stress in life through one thing or another and the outdoors is simply the best reset. Simply making a fire and having a hot drink with family or friends is just unbelievably relaxing. I actually find your Chanel and others similar to be absolutely inspiring THANK YOU
Well said bud- it’s a battle I’ve always had but identified it earlier in the year. I focus very heavily on doing my exercise outside (triathlon) and have brought in meditation and yoga after every time I train. It helps.
Thanks a lot for the reminder. I can certainly relate to a lot, and its always nice to get some insight into how other people deal with it. As always, a very good video and more importantly very helpful!
Brilliant words NIck. I suffer from poor mental health and PTSD after losing my dad, and recently have stopped looking at social media (deleted from my phone) started reading books again (what a. difference to sleep that makes) and walk twice a day with the dog to do a bit forest bathing. All of these things help SO MUCH to keep me on an even-ish keel. Being kind to yourself, to others, not putting pressure on yourself, taking a moment to reflect that everything at that specific time is not terrible is the other half for me. Ukraine caught me out, I got deep in the rabbit hole of the news, OSint, radio updates. Did me no good whatsovever, I got angry, upset, felt helpless. One of the other comments mentioned that you can over-empathise which is really valid. Totally not saying that we shouldn't at all, but to internalise it can be dangerous. For me stripping away the layers of modern life and getting back to what's important is key. Family, homes, friends, hobbies, they're our focus, and our happiness and joy comes from that.
Props for putting this together and for being very honest and open. When I've been asked about PTSD and more importantly the treatment I had, I make it very clear that the 8 months of counselling sessions with a CPN allowed me to offload in a controlled environment, without judgement and absolute confidentiality, but that the outcome wasn't a 'cure' but a desensitisation. It was a mechanism to at least in part process what I'd been through and it provided me with some ways to manage PTSD. To quote the late great Robin Williams talking about giving up alcohol, 'I'm the same asshole, I just have fewer dents in my car'. My tv broke a year or two ago (I've actually forgotten how long it's been) and I didn't replace it, so my exposure to the news has been far less than it would have been and I think that has helped significantly with what is going on right now. I've certainly read posts or comments from fellow veterans and colleagues from the Army that have been triggered, and they've taken themselves off social media, or deliberately taken themselves away for a trip away from the noise. Echoing other comments, thanks for sharing this.
Thank you for this. Realise I had fallen in to a rut and actually caught myself early. Been filling my days in the garden and finding little tasks to do. Had my parents visit and spent quality time with family. I have found exercise and making achievable measurable (SMART) goals. Thank you so much for this truly a topic we as veterans need to keep discussing amongst ourselves and with friends.
I recently had some time off from work I wasn’t sleeping I was constantly angry, been having talking therapy which was and wasn’t working, I’m still struggling to put my finger on what it is that I need cleared from my brain. But I will say sometimes disappearing down the UA-cam hole makes things worse but then as you say you come across someone that says things and in a style that resonates. I’m not military but the industry I work in has put me in situations that I wasn’t prepared for. But hearing your thoughts and ideas for being easier on myself is great advice and has worked for me. Thanks.
Brilliant insights! I've been getting into Bushcraft and it's such a great way to get exercise and keep mentally active. If I goto bed with stress on my mind.. I wake up even more stressed and it totally ruins my whole day, but after a day in the woods building whatever (I want to get into carving more) I get home with a sense of pride and am completely knackered. All I think about is what I want to achieve next .. but when I'm stuck at home I get frustrated, all my problems know where to find me :( Thanks for the wise words! Very deep.
I find getting into nature - I've recently taken up bird photography - I plan to revisit plenty of coastal path areas I first explored last year, and watching videos of the array of cool bushcrafters doing their thing; camping, cooking, etc really helpful. Obviously you are one of those but also Paul Messner, Simon A Bloke In The Woods, Summit or Nothing, and various others. There is something so relaxing about watching you folk do what you do. Cheers Pete
Great video. When I treat anyone (ranging from Special Operators and Emergency Services Personnel all the way through to brave single-mums on welfare) suffering PTSD or anxiety or any kind I remind them , as you have also suggested, that we cannot control everything outside of ourselves, but we can work towards control of our own thoughts and actions. It takes practice, but it's so worthwhile. Focussing on the 5 ft in front of you is a great start - it bring the overwhelm of the whole world into a much smaller and manageable size. And ironically, the opposite - when you take yourself away onto nature, with its expansive vistas, allows you to see just how huge and amazing the natural world is. In that escape you can calm your mind down and reset your stress levels - better thoughts and solutions come from a calmer mind too. Love the Videos - keep up the great work. Such an important message in this troubling time.
Thanks nick, I came to this some years back. Its ouside your circle of controle. You get more then the detail you need from other people. I stoped waching the news about ten years ago on a regular basis. I will wacht news only when I seek ik out to get particular information. What it seems to me is that the news is grown more and more populist in the past 20 years. Le order of news items is no longer based on the same ranking of importance (atleast here in the Netherlands as well as in other countries) popular and even pop culture items often come before news of importance. Ps. Yes, carving is like meditation, I just love carving spoons!
Well said. Some of this stuff is such a simple concept, and I think subconsciously we “know” it all ready. Actually hearing it out loud from someone like you, healed me right up this morning. I didn’t know I needed that. Thanks nick! Keep up the good work. It matters.
i was a wardsmen/security guard in a hospital, after for 7 years of experience death, i was diagonised with CTPD so had to change industries, and after taking a year off work i retrained as a preschool teacher so i get to watch the start of lift ever day. thank your for wholesome content.
Great talk,TED. (That’s a reference to the TED Talks comment for those of you who don’t get my subtle obtuse humor). I self-edit my news intake so that I receive just enough to stay abreast of current events but not enough to beat my psyche down to a blithering pulp. It was the same over the last five years on the political news front. Thumbs up from America, my friend. Keep helping us through the bad times and sharing the good times. SDR from Northwest Virginia, USA.
I try n go for a 60-90 minute hike each afternoon/evening with my dog. I pick a trail n just watch where I am going to put my feet in the next few steps. This simple act helps me take my mind of off “things”. I work in a Crisis Stabilization Unit trying to help others going through MHI and/or Addictions n doing this really helps me to deal with these stressors n life in general. A moving body is often a healthy body- mentally, physically & spiritually. Like your videos a lot. Take care.
A timely, carefully phrased set of thoughts that are apposite, for us and many others we suspect. You have the happy ability to communicate important concepts in straightforward terms, and for this, we are very grateful to you, your family and business through the channel. Top job. We're lucky in that the last week of good weather saw us in a rural environment without mobile or TV, and kept away from the corrosive 24hr News cycle. Birdsong prevailed in our ears for the whole week, and it was a great mental reset. Keep up what you do, and thanks from us.
Wow, re-reading this a moment ago makes me want to run away from the corporate cr*p that I experienced at work; I'm sorry if it reads that way to your viewers, but I hope that you appreciate our support.
Wise words many thanks. Decided a while ago to switch off as much of the news as possible and its working for me. Having a tough time at the moment but been out hiking in Shropshire today and it's helped me get ready for work next week. Creativity is a great way to switch off so wood carving is a great one.
Another great video Nick, some really good pointers in this, highlighting some basic techniques that most of us probably already know but brings it back to the forefront! Looking forward getting your book delivered this week!
For me, it’s sitting in the garden and just try and concentrate on my breath. Bye the way I love you videos and love listening to your life experience and the advice you give, self care makes you a better functioning person/ parent/ member of society.🙏
Thank you Nick so much for this perspective and this encouragement. The unique and valuable thing you did was you didn’t simply say this is wrong don’t do it. You asked us to consider and then most importantly gave ideas on alternate things to do that are actually positive and helpful. Brilliant.
Thank you for your excellent video Nick. What you say makes so much sense. I grew up in former Yugoslavia and was in my teens during the Bosnian war (1992-1995). During the most difficult periods of the war, my city was under siege, constantly bombarded and most areas weren't accessible due to heavy sniper fire. The populace was without the basics most take for granted. On top of that the news from the rest of the country we managed to catch on the radio (powered by old car batteries) was almost always bad. Compounded by our desperate situation and the almost daily exposure to stories of terrible things happening around us I saw lots of people lose hope and fail to look after themselves and their loved ones properly. I survived by following a very simple philosophy of splitting my world into two circles - in one circle were the things I could control and in the other were all the things I directly couldn't control or change the course of. I focused all my energy into the first circle and I am so glad that I did. Thank you again.
Hi Nick, all really great advice for anyone dealing with anxiety, whatever the reason. Something I would add, which I've only become aware of recently, is to be careful of empathy, especially emotional empathy (feeling others pain, as opposed to just understanding it). I know that sounds odd but too much does you no good, in the same way as too much media. It was always something which I struggled with so I had been making a concerted effort to develop my skills in this area; the thing was thought it was just making me more anxious and unhappy. Everywhere I looked I saw others suffering, whether it was online or people I know, even animals, and it would just become utterly overwhelming. Then I read a book called The Problem With Empathy (can't remember the author of the top of my head) which explains that emotional empathy is not helpful, it tends to cause us to freeze in simulated misery. Whereas *compassion* is much more useful as it tends to spur action. Obviously this is an incredibly simplified description but I agree with the jist. Now I am very much more careful with how I deploy my empathic abilities.
Wow, that was unexpected - Just watched and then re-watched this one a couple of times because a lot of what you said there resonated. Certainly eye opening and has given me a bit of a plan to start better myself on certain things moving forward - thanks Nick.
Love your channel. your headspace walk idea saved me during my divorce, can't thank you enough for that. getting back into the swing of things, just wanted to thank you for your genuineness and your kindness
Nailed it. I have books to read and incense to burn, but for some reason I get up every morning and instantly engage in doom-scrolling. Thank you for that insight.
Totally agree fella! Try my best to avoid news. Not that I dont care, I absolutely do, but I need to keep myself above water. Key for me (as motivation been lost over last few years), is I ALWAYS have a bag packed ready to grab and go out. Day pack stuff with emergency food/- water etc. Even some little weights in there for fitness. Camping stuff out on display in my dining room next to it (obviously single haha!). Most of the times I've bailed on going out, has been because of the thought of packing and hunting stuff out. Sounds pathetic but the mind is a funny thing. Since i started having the bag ready, I've been out so much more. Heading out now to grab a whopping turkey tail mushroom I spotted last week. Cheers fella, great vid
Spot on it's like a kettle the pressure builds up an it's ok to just let it out like a kettle let's out Steam. Emotions are like waves we have ups and downs. Each day will be different take each one as it comes & be kind and respectful to each other 👍
Thats why i love the big fields wheter open or full of bushes.i must just go for a day so i clean my mind. Salute to you Nick for sharing you have my respect.!
Atta boy! Well said! Personally, my faith gives me perspective as well. Much like the top of that hill you're on, it helps me see a bigger picture and one with ultimate hope & purpose at the end. Your words were truth and well suited to where we find ourselves today. Thank you for the excellent reminder! 👍🏻🇨🇦
From a fellow Veteran; thank you, your video is some of the best advice I have had in quite some time. I hope it gets many more views. I particularly liked the recommendation to focus 5 feet in front of you. Keep up the good work.
Hi Nick. I'm fortunate. I moved to Torquay 25 years ago and when I get stressed, that distant horizon is just 15 minutes away. That's why i took up sea fishing. I like to lure fish. Somehow, i can be aware of what the lure is doing and be switched off at the same time. It helps me sort my head out and put things into perspective. After watching this video, I have realised, I get up, get a coffee and look at my phone to catch up with the world. Time for a change. Time to start the day with a book instead of looking at my phone. Wish me luck.
Reading up and trying to practice situational awareness in the hope that I would carry myself better as I go thro daily activities. Fascinating topic, definitely a life skill. The challenge is to actually have the wherewithal to click it in when you go into a store for example. So easy, at least for me, to be the uncontrolled air head which has avoidable stressful consequences
I literally got the cold glass of water ten mins before watching this. I was going to skip going outside today because it has turned blustery winter here again for a moment in my part of Canada, but perhaps I will go clear my head. Glad your videos help you as much as they help others.
Excellent! Thank you. Picking up the guitar now. Nature is always a great cure. I think if the internet was gone, we'd all be more connected and stable humans. Hope everyone has a beautiful day 🙂✌
Thanks Nick. Good sense as ever 👍. I stopped watching the news during Covid, when the media ignored whatever else was happening in the world… caffeine and sugar: that’s a harder addiction to break 😂😏
Thanks for that talk. It really resonated. So much good advice. And yeah, not eveyone with ptsd was in the armed forces. Thanks for the inclusive language.
Great video Nick. Helped to understand why, despite having experienced enough trauma already through the military and now healthcare, the urge to run towards danger and try to help is huge. My "escape" is now my childhood hobby of building models. Shared to our website as always bud.
Just recently got hooked on this channel - really nice content. As Ukrainian living through all this I would like that noone in peaceful and cultural world have ever experienced any bit of such horrors. Peaceful people just don't deserve it. However, me and other Ukrainian people very appreciate any kind of support from the word. It is nice to understand that we are not alone. As for the mental state, in any case the first thing you need do is try to be the most effective, efficient and concise. Hitting those extreme sides like being indifferent (apathy) and panic, may be equally harmful. But usually the cause is the same - being overwhelmed. Yep, the best thing is at least to do something, do sports, fresh air, do you job or things that you do the best and/or like the most.
Hi Nick, hang in there brother .👊! Hope you and your family are doing great. Keep the videos coming bud. Stay safe and be well. Strength and Honor...From a mate across the pond 👍.
Awesome and timely video. I try to unplug and make short term goals. Making a batch of coffee and quietly sipping on it the very early morning and taking time to enjoy the moment. That’s my reason to get up and start living again. Though sometimes the”old me” slips back into my headspace, making me hyper vigilant. Currently working with kids from the region and recognize some of these signs in them. I try to get them to unplug and just be kids again, laughing 😝 and being silly 🙃. They usually walk away with a smile 😊 on their faces and thank me for letting them be “ goofy” 🤪 kids. Cheers 🍻, take care and stay frosty.🌲🇨🇦🏕🇬🇧🌲
Another great video, I would have to say grabbing my over night pack and hiking though the woods or down to the river on the outskirts of town so you hear nothing but nature.
I wasn't getting any vids that you posted latley I'm so so glad you covered this topic and that l caught it. Thank You Nick! It's funny I'm such a chicken l avoid them clicks if it's got a warning, it's warning for a reason. It's hard to unsee what's been seen so I'm avoiding the news lately.
I’ve just seen this video. The Ukraine situation has certainly knocked the scab off my PTSD. I found myself wanting to actually go and volunteer. This feeling was as ridiculous as it was real. I managed to find a project to fill my time and head! Great video.
I'm not on any social media. I have an app blocker on my phone which stops UA-cam and BBC news. Also getting a dog is a great help - forces you to get outside. I'm also carving a spoon whilst watching this! You are definitely right, the news on Ukraine has been affecting me and particularly those around me. I love your take on things. You are a warrior fighting your PTSD so keep it up. Cheers.
Hi Nick great advice, like to cut up small branches for my Bush box with the thicker stuff like to make tent pegs. I try not to watch the news I don't buy newspapers anymore. But you can't totally shield yourself from it so I go and do something I enjoy
I have been doing this same thing every morning when I wake up.I check in the news to see what's happening in Ukraine. And no word of a lie I started to become very depressed and I did cry. Not afraid to say it. I live in the country so I will be going on some walks and try to become less stressed. Great video my man.
Great bit of scuttle butt information there Nick. i havent watched a television for nearly 3 years due to the constant mind wearing monotony of the "issue" first and now the next problem as harsh as the scenario may be. I am on a journey to just live as stress free as i possibly can. I make leather articles and restore old machines and collect pointless things like old tobacco tins..this just gives me something to chase which harms nothing apart from my wallet in small doses. We all need a bit of a break from the constant media battering. i hope your message gets to millions as it is very valid.
Stopped watching the MSM and switched off the TV 11 years ago best thing I ever done.
curious to hear where you source information from now... alternative, non-tv media?
@@cliveramsbotty6077 I use the internet to source my information from a limitless number of independent small content creator's, which is why all the Intel suggests there will be a cyber attack coming to shut the system down as too many people are turning away from the indoctrination and sourcing the truth for themselves.
@@davidmarcus5833 great job!
Me too. Got tired of all the psy-ops.
@@cliveramsbotty6077 If you want to releave the stress you get from the news. You need to realise that even if you see ant talk to but a few people a day you will have conversations about the most important news. Therefore you dont need to wach the news at all (I have found and with me a lot of others) the most important news will reach you, and in a much less impactfull way, releaving your stress. Realise thed whenever you hear the news, its a rare occurense that you can have an influense on it.
My wife died on Tuesday. I've taken complete avoidance of any news since as I don't have any mental space in order to cope with it. Thank you for this video. It helped. Much love to all of my beautiful brothers and sisters out there. Stay strong x
Stay strong!
I am so deeply sorry. Life and the Blessings of Life be upon you.
I am a veteran, and I got home back in 1977. And to this day, old feelings make their presence known on occasion, and if I let them, these feelings can and do trigger old memories I'd rather forget.
My strategy is to remind myself that it happenened to an early younger version of the person that I am today. It has made me stronger for getting through it.
Thank you for this! It's just the sort of kick up the arse I needed to get out of the rut. I got out yesterday on the bike into the country side, was a guilt free ride and I was able to absorb the environment, totally took me away from everything. This morning, I started hitting that 'I'm not interested' button on YT today against all the war news as I could instantly feel myself going back into the rut. Also, totally agree on journaling! The book "mind journal: this book will make you stronger" was a great introduction to journaling and I would highly recommend it :)
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 well, I don't watch tv at all. I seek out for natural things. Thanks for the video and advices.
Hi from Syracuse NY USA brother and thank you for sharing your thoughts and adventures
Thank you Nick. Years ago i was traveling through India, i saw a man sat by the path in little but rags. He smiled as i approached, and and i sat for while . He said that he was a Sadhu, (Hindu holy man. ) He gestured that i looked troubled.. ...then said something that has stayed with me forever.Nag Panchaya... Later i returned to my hostel... I asked a man to translate it.... "Be a porter at the gates of your mind" .... I have tried to ,every day since.
Thanks again Nick 👍 forgot to say that i will carry that phrase on my next big walk Two moors way across Devon and Somerset in 3 weeks time . ATVB2U and yours Scott Somerset
Great talk Nick ! This isn't the first time that the ugliness of war has been recorded, but this is the first time when people can actually see it LIVE. I've not seen combat, but have responded to a lot of violent deaths. I wasn't addicted to the live war news, rather I wanted to hear what the leaders of our respective countries had to say. And inevitably the news would go "live" to Kiev etc... after seeing a family of 4 get taken out by a mortar shell "live", that was it for me. And this also brings back the sage words of my former commanding officer who's words to the news junkies were "how is your life to be made any better by constantly watching and hearing all the bad news?". I can't see any benefits to any of it. We don't have to be callous or insensitive to other people's plight, but we can't let affect us to the point where it's harmful to us.
Sadly the people who control the mainstream media have absolutely ZERO interest in making our lives better. They only care about their interests
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 indeed. It's not lots of things... Honest being just one
Thanks so much for this. I have anxiety disorder along with autism which makes me absorb more details than the average person, which has been very overwhelming. Because of a personal situation that is already causing me a lot of pain and trauma, all the news about Ukraine has pushed me to the limits of my processing power. It's hard not to feel guilty for not caring more about Ukraine or for wanting to switch off from it all. Thank you for saying that it's ok to let the war go in our minds and to prioritise our own pain and trauma first.
Good talk Nick, The quick about me :22 LEO, with 7 years on the Bomb Squad. I want to say to all that stress and panic are multiplied when we start the day with more bad news. If any is suffering from PTSD please find/ask for help. If the first person you talk with doesn't work, that's okay. Keep looking! It took me three times to find the right one. Don't start the day with electronics, and don't end the night with them. The Sun rises and sets slowly and we should do the same.
❤️👍🙏
Don't start the day with electronics, and don't end the night with them. Unless you work in the electronics repair business. But it's always coffee first and beer last for me ;)
Be well Josh, we have some knowledge of the background you've experienced.
@@PaulaXism See I had that backwards:)
I must admit seeing some of the footage reminded me of my time.I did bosnia twice and Kosovo.again in Europe,reduced to tears through frustration that this is happening again
Same here mate! Your not alone
Thanks for the perspective.
Hi Nick. I've just subscribed to your channel and I have to say, I can't get enough of it. Not only are your lessons, tips and advice well presented and I'm learning much, but I must also applaud you for your honesty when it comes to mental health. It's a tough subject especially for men, as a sufferer it's refreshing to hear a "blokey bloke" saying it's ok to cry.
As for my tips to avoid mental stress. I don't watch TV, I don't read newspapers, I limit my access to social media. And the phone goes away a couple of hours before bed, preferably into another room.
I’ve worked in Ukraine and have a personal connection. My old team are still there and there’s been at least one casualty. Being unable to do something was stressful but I’ve found a way of contributing with voluntary work for fundraising plans for bomb disposal there. Hopefully I can get back in there to help tidy up.
You are an inspiration in such a subtle way. Out yesterday in the woods and everything focused. Thanks Nick
Thanks for this! I can’t even imagine what PTSD feels like but I struggle with anxiety and depression. Your perspective on mental health and the outdoors has been SO great for me. I’ve been trying to force myself to ignore my instinct to crawl in a hole and instead get out into the woods and learn new skills. Your content has been a huge encouragement for that so…. THANKS! I appreciate your willingness to be transparent.
Wise words. Thank you 😊
This, is probably one of the most amazing videos you have ever posted Nick. I am a Brit, living in Poland, and to give perspective, I am probably as close to danger where I live, as you are to me. That said, you are 100% spot on in your observation of the narrative. You and I can only control our own attitude and actions, nothing else. You and your family are amazing and totally inspiring. thank you x
Thats amazing, I'm lucky to have not seen or experienced many of the things your subscribers have but I do get anxious and the way you present the coping strategies and talk about it is really helpful. Thanks.
Glad to hear you talking about this. Cheers.
I find watching steel forging to make amazing swords and knives works best for me to calm down. Watching how many times the steel is folded and forged is the best part.
Thanks, a very timely video.
Great comments form you Nick. I really appreciate that you are creating awareness reg our unhealthy habits of media consumption and whatnot could do to us. One point to add: I find the major challenge not so much in the practises throughout the day once I’m aware of my unhealthy ones. The challenge in my opinion is before that: esp when it comes to questions of survival or those we deem relevant to be that way (or get them fed in that way by the media to sell clicks) our brain acts based on system 1, the “auto, fast” brain. ( referring here to D Kahmemann) so a good practise of mindfulness is essential for me to even be aware when I slip into bad habits. I think your mentioning of gaining perspective serves a similar purpose. Learning this kind of self awareness keeps me sane even in critical situations
Top Bloke! Bringing it all into perspective. Love it.
Great advice. Thank You.
Important information right here! Thank you!
Great pep talk Nick, you're reaching far and wide. You're a very inspirational bloke. Keep em coming!
Thank you, very helpful and inspired talk!
Completely agree with your thoughts and advice in this video. I too use nature and the outdoors as a natural stress reliever and I can also appreciate how the constant negative news can darken our mood. Personally I find it far more tolerable to access news by reading it rather rather than watching it and I also try to access the written news through more balanced outlets.
Your thoughts on being kind are so true and I’ve come to appreciate that by being kind to others we also being kind to ourselves. One last thing that I try to remember is that although the horrors being inflicted in Ukraine are so overwhelming, it’s probably important to realise that as a whole the world is generally a far safer and more compassionate place than at any time in living memory. Keep up the valuable work Nick, you’re a good man.
Thank you! This is what i needed to hear.
Getting out there in the great outdoors is such a good feeling. Life is just too busy, so connected through phones and the internet, the wilderness is the only real rest we can get. Thank you for these great videos, they’re calming and inspire me to get out there.
Couldn’t agree more Nick.
Fortunately I don’t suffer from PTSD or much else. I’m a regular guy making way through life but we all have stress in life through one thing or another and the outdoors is simply the best reset. Simply making a fire and having a hot drink with family or friends is just unbelievably relaxing. I actually find your Chanel and others similar to be absolutely inspiring
THANK YOU
Well said bud- it’s a battle I’ve always had but identified it earlier in the year.
I focus very heavily on doing my exercise outside (triathlon) and have brought in meditation and yoga after every time I train. It helps.
Thank you for talking about this.
Thanks, Nick. Really needed to hear this right now.. and You expressed this issue very well. You are a good soul! Perspective is everything.
Thanks a lot for the reminder. I can certainly relate to a lot, and its always nice to get some insight into how other people deal with it. As always, a very good video and more importantly very helpful!
Brilliant words NIck. I suffer from poor mental health and PTSD after losing my dad, and recently have stopped looking at social media (deleted from my phone) started reading books again (what a. difference to sleep that makes) and walk twice a day with the dog to do a bit forest bathing. All of these things help SO MUCH to keep me on an even-ish keel. Being kind to yourself, to others, not putting pressure on yourself, taking a moment to reflect that everything at that specific time is not terrible is the other half for me. Ukraine caught me out, I got deep in the rabbit hole of the news, OSint, radio updates. Did me no good whatsovever, I got angry, upset, felt helpless. One of the other comments mentioned that you can over-empathise which is really valid. Totally not saying that we shouldn't at all, but to internalise it can be dangerous. For me stripping away the layers of modern life and getting back to what's important is key. Family, homes, friends, hobbies, they're our focus, and our happiness and joy comes from that.
Props for putting this together and for being very honest and open. When I've been asked about PTSD and more importantly the treatment I had, I make it very clear that the 8 months of counselling sessions with a CPN allowed me to offload in a controlled environment, without judgement and absolute confidentiality, but that the outcome wasn't a 'cure' but a desensitisation. It was a mechanism to at least in part process what I'd been through and it provided me with some ways to manage PTSD. To quote the late great Robin Williams talking about giving up alcohol, 'I'm the same asshole, I just have fewer dents in my car'.
My tv broke a year or two ago (I've actually forgotten how long it's been) and I didn't replace it, so my exposure to the news has been far less than it would have been and I think that has helped significantly with what is going on right now. I've certainly read posts or comments from fellow veterans and colleagues from the Army that have been triggered, and they've taken themselves off social media, or deliberately taken themselves away for a trip away from the noise.
Echoing other comments, thanks for sharing this.
Thank you for the great self care tips. The fear of how bad things might get does creep up on us.
Well said, thanks Nick.
Thank you for this. Realise I had fallen in to a rut and actually caught myself early. Been filling my days in the garden and finding little tasks to do. Had my parents visit and spent quality time with family. I have found exercise and making achievable measurable (SMART) goals. Thank you so much for this truly a topic we as veterans need to keep discussing amongst ourselves and with friends.
Great advice! Thank you 👍
Thank you Nick.
I recently had some time off from work I wasn’t sleeping I was constantly angry, been having talking therapy which was and wasn’t working, I’m still struggling to put my finger on what it is that I need cleared from my brain. But I will say sometimes disappearing down the UA-cam hole makes things worse but then as you say you come across someone that says things and in a style that resonates. I’m not military but the industry I work in has put me in situations that I wasn’t prepared for. But hearing your thoughts and ideas for being easier on myself is great advice and has worked for me. Thanks.
Brilliant insights! I've been getting into Bushcraft and it's such a great way to get exercise and keep mentally active. If I goto bed with stress on my mind.. I wake up even more stressed and it totally ruins my whole day, but after a day in the woods building whatever (I want to get into carving more) I get home with a sense of pride and am completely knackered. All I think about is what I want to achieve next .. but when I'm stuck at home I get frustrated, all my problems know where to find me :( Thanks for the wise words! Very deep.
I find getting into nature - I've recently taken up bird photography - I plan to revisit plenty of coastal path areas I first explored last year, and watching videos of the array of cool bushcrafters doing their thing; camping, cooking, etc really helpful. Obviously you are one of those but also Paul Messner, Simon A Bloke In The Woods, Summit or Nothing, and various others. There is something so relaxing about watching you folk do what you do. Cheers Pete
Great video. When I treat anyone (ranging from Special Operators and Emergency Services Personnel all the way through to brave single-mums on welfare) suffering PTSD or anxiety or any kind I remind them , as you have also suggested, that we cannot control everything outside of ourselves, but we can work towards control of our own thoughts and actions. It takes practice, but it's so worthwhile. Focussing on the 5 ft in front of you is a great start - it bring the overwhelm of the whole world into a much smaller and manageable size. And ironically, the opposite - when you take yourself away onto nature, with its expansive vistas, allows you to see just how huge and amazing the natural world is. In that escape you can calm your mind down and reset your stress levels - better thoughts and solutions come from a calmer mind too. Love the Videos - keep up the great work. Such an important message in this troubling time.
Thanks nick, I came to this some years back. Its ouside your circle of controle. You get more then the detail you need from other people. I stoped waching the news about ten years ago on a regular basis. I will wacht news only when I seek ik out to get particular information.
What it seems to me is that the news is grown more and more populist in the past 20 years. Le order of news items is no longer based on the same ranking of importance (atleast here in the Netherlands as well as in other countries) popular and even pop culture items often come before news of importance.
Ps. Yes, carving is like meditation, I just love carving spoons!
Great advise as always I agree focusing on a project and getting in the zone AWESOME really appreciate your honesty Nick Have a Blessed Day...🙏🤙👍
An outstanding video Nick! Thank you for this!
Well said. Some of this stuff is such a simple concept, and I think subconsciously we “know” it all ready. Actually hearing it out loud from someone like you, healed me right up this morning. I didn’t know I needed that. Thanks nick! Keep up the good work. It matters.
i was a wardsmen/security guard in a hospital, after for 7 years of experience death, i was diagonised with CTPD so had to change industries, and after taking a year off work i retrained as a preschool teacher so i get to watch the start of lift ever day. thank your for wholesome content.
Great talk,TED. (That’s a reference to the TED Talks comment for those of you who don’t get my subtle obtuse humor). I self-edit my news intake so that I receive just enough to stay abreast of current events but not enough to beat my psyche down to a blithering pulp. It was the same over the last five years on the political news front.
Thumbs up from America, my friend. Keep helping us through the bad times and sharing the good times.
SDR from Northwest Virginia, USA.
I try n go for a 60-90 minute hike each afternoon/evening with my dog.
I pick a trail n just watch where I am going to put my feet in the next few steps. This simple act helps me take my mind of off “things”.
I work in a Crisis Stabilization Unit trying to help others going through MHI and/or Addictions n doing this really helps me to deal with these stressors n life in general.
A moving body is often a healthy body- mentally, physically & spiritually.
Like your videos a lot. Take care.
Top Notch Nick, well said and well timed. Just getting into some woodland and having a bimble or a brew is my go to.
A timely, carefully phrased set of thoughts that are apposite, for us and many others we suspect. You have the happy ability to communicate important concepts in straightforward terms, and for this, we are very grateful to you, your family and business through the channel. Top job. We're lucky in that the last week of good weather saw us in a rural environment without mobile or TV, and kept away from the corrosive 24hr News cycle. Birdsong prevailed in our ears for the whole week, and it was a great mental reset. Keep up what you do, and thanks from us.
Wow, re-reading this a moment ago makes me want to run away from the corporate cr*p that I experienced at work; I'm sorry if it reads that way to your viewers, but I hope that you appreciate our support.
Wise words many thanks. Decided a while ago to switch off as much of the news as possible and its working for me. Having a tough time at the moment but been out hiking in Shropshire today and it's helped me get ready for work next week. Creativity is a great way to switch off so wood carving is a great one.
Thank you so much Nick, that was a real gift to your viewers. And so helpful given your intensive military background. Grateful thanks sir!
My PTSD and me. Needed this about now. I’ll look again tomorrow.
I think a lot of people are feeling this way. Thanks for this. One of the best contributions you've made. Cheers. ☕
Spot on and keep up the fantastic videos cheers.
Well said man. Keep up your great work!
Another great video Nick, some really good pointers in this, highlighting some basic techniques that most of us probably already know but brings it back to the forefront! Looking forward getting your book delivered this week!
For me, it’s sitting in the garden and just try and concentrate on my breath. Bye the way I love you videos and love listening to your life experience and the advice you give, self care makes you a better functioning person/ parent/ member of society.🙏
Thank you Nick so much for this perspective and this encouragement. The unique and valuable thing you did was you didn’t simply say this is wrong don’t do it. You asked us to consider and then most importantly gave ideas on alternate things to do that are actually positive and helpful. Brilliant.
Thank you for your excellent video Nick. What you say makes so much sense. I grew up in former Yugoslavia and was in my teens during the Bosnian war (1992-1995). During the most difficult periods of the war, my city was under siege, constantly bombarded and most areas weren't accessible due to heavy sniper fire. The populace was without the basics most take for granted. On top of that the news from the rest of the country we managed to catch on the radio (powered by old car batteries) was almost always bad. Compounded by our desperate situation and the almost daily exposure to stories of terrible things happening around us I saw lots of people lose hope and fail to look after themselves and their loved ones properly. I survived by following a very simple philosophy of splitting my world into two circles - in one circle were the things I could control and in the other were all the things I directly couldn't control or change the course of. I focused all my energy into the first circle and I am so glad that I did. Thank you again.
Hi Nick, all really great advice for anyone dealing with anxiety, whatever the reason. Something I would add, which I've only become aware of recently, is to be careful of empathy, especially emotional empathy (feeling others pain, as opposed to just understanding it). I know that sounds odd but too much does you no good, in the same way as too much media. It was always something which I struggled with so I had been making a concerted effort to develop my skills in this area; the thing was thought it was just making me more anxious and unhappy. Everywhere I looked I saw others suffering, whether it was online or people I know, even animals, and it would just become utterly overwhelming.
Then I read a book called The Problem With Empathy (can't remember the author of the top of my head) which explains that emotional empathy is not helpful, it tends to cause us to freeze in simulated misery. Whereas *compassion* is much more useful as it tends to spur action. Obviously this is an incredibly simplified description but I agree with the jist. Now I am very much more careful with how I deploy my empathic abilities.
Thanks mate really helpful!
Wow, that was unexpected - Just watched and then re-watched this one a couple of times because a lot of what you said there resonated. Certainly eye opening and has given me a bit of a plan to start better myself on certain things moving forward - thanks Nick.
Love your channel. your headspace walk idea saved me during my divorce, can't thank you enough for that. getting back into the swing of things, just wanted to thank you for your genuineness and your kindness
Thank you Nick. A tough but crucial conversation to have.
Nailed it.
I have books to read and incense to burn, but for some reason I get up every morning and instantly engage in doom-scrolling.
Thank you for that insight.
Totally agree fella! Try my best to avoid news. Not that I dont care, I absolutely do, but I need to keep myself above water. Key for me (as motivation been lost over last few years), is I ALWAYS have a bag packed ready to grab and go out. Day pack stuff with emergency food/- water etc. Even some little weights in there for fitness. Camping stuff out on display in my dining room next to it (obviously single haha!). Most of the times I've bailed on going out, has been because of the thought of packing and hunting stuff out. Sounds pathetic but the mind is a funny thing. Since i started having the bag ready, I've been out so much more. Heading out now to grab a whopping turkey tail mushroom I spotted last week. Cheers fella, great vid
Spot on it's like a kettle the pressure builds up an it's ok to just let it out like a kettle let's out Steam.
Emotions are like waves we have ups and downs.
Each day will be different take each one as it comes & be kind and respectful to each other 👍
Thats why i love the big fields wheter open or full of bushes.i must just go for a day so i clean my mind. Salute to you Nick for sharing you have my respect.!
Some fantastic advice! I've recently taken up Trumpet. Playing long tones in my wood is almost like zen yoga or something.
Atta boy! Well said! Personally, my faith gives me perspective as well. Much like the top of that hill you're on, it helps me see a bigger picture and one with ultimate hope & purpose at the end.
Your words were truth and well suited to where we find ourselves today. Thank you for the excellent reminder! 👍🏻🇨🇦
From a fellow Veteran; thank you, your video is some of the best advice I have had in quite some time. I hope it gets many more views. I particularly liked the recommendation to focus 5 feet in front of you. Keep up the good work.
great video, i wish you and your family well this mothers day
Hi Nick. I'm fortunate. I moved to Torquay 25 years ago and when I get stressed, that distant horizon is just 15 minutes away. That's why i took up sea fishing. I like to lure fish. Somehow, i can be aware of what the lure is doing and be switched off at the same time. It helps me sort my head out and put things into perspective. After watching this video, I have realised, I get up, get a coffee and look at my phone to catch up with the world. Time for a change. Time to start the day with a book instead of looking at my phone. Wish me luck.
Reading up and trying to practice situational awareness in the hope that I would carry myself better as I go thro daily activities. Fascinating topic, definitely a life skill. The challenge is to actually have the wherewithal to click it in when you go into a store for example. So easy, at least for me, to be the uncontrolled air head which has avoidable stressful consequences
I literally got the cold glass of water ten mins before watching this. I was going to skip going outside today because it has turned blustery winter here again for a moment in my part of Canada, but perhaps I will go clear my head. Glad your videos help you as much as they help others.
Excellent! Thank you. Picking up the guitar now. Nature is always a great cure. I think if the internet was gone, we'd all be more connected and stable humans. Hope everyone has a beautiful day 🙂✌
I’m a therapist who uses EMDR with veterans and other survivors.
This is beautifully, beautifully stated.
Awesome. Thanks.
Thanks Nick. Good sense as ever 👍. I stopped watching the news during Covid, when the media ignored whatever else was happening in the world… caffeine and sugar: that’s a harder addiction to break 😂😏
Thanks for that talk. It really resonated. So much good advice. And yeah, not eveyone with ptsd was in the armed forces. Thanks for the inclusive language.
Thank you Nick for this video mate, it’s just what I needed to hear buddy. 👍🏻👍🏻 stay safe mukker atb Pete
Great video Nick. Helped to understand why, despite having experienced enough trauma already through the military and now healthcare, the urge to run towards danger and try to help is huge. My "escape" is now my childhood hobby of building models. Shared to our website as always bud.
Just recently got hooked on this channel - really nice content.
As Ukrainian living through all this I would like that noone in peaceful and cultural world have ever experienced any bit of such horrors. Peaceful people just don't deserve it.
However, me and other Ukrainian people very appreciate any kind of support from the word. It is nice to understand that we are not alone.
As for the mental state, in any case the first thing you need do is try to be the most effective, efficient and concise. Hitting those extreme sides like being indifferent (apathy) and panic, may be equally harmful. But usually the cause is the same - being overwhelmed.
Yep, the best thing is at least to do something, do sports, fresh air, do you job or things that you do the best and/or like the most.
Hi Nick, hang in there brother .👊!
Hope you and your family are doing great. Keep the videos coming bud. Stay safe and be well. Strength and Honor...From a mate across the pond 👍.
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Anytime Nick. I hope the best for you and your family bud.
Bushcraft and camping in the wild get in touch with nature and the elements just take care all
Awesome and timely video. I try to unplug and make short term goals. Making a batch of coffee and quietly sipping on it the very early morning and taking time to enjoy the moment. That’s my reason to get up and start living again. Though sometimes the”old me” slips back into my headspace, making me hyper vigilant. Currently working with kids from the region and recognize some of these signs in them. I try to get them to unplug and just be kids again, laughing 😝 and being silly 🙃. They usually walk away with a smile 😊 on their faces and thank me for letting them be “ goofy” 🤪 kids. Cheers 🍻, take care and stay frosty.🌲🇨🇦🏕🇬🇧🌲
Another great video, I would have to say grabbing my over night pack and hiking though the woods or down to the river on the outskirts of town so you hear nothing but nature.
I wasn't getting any vids that you posted latley I'm so so glad you covered this topic and that l caught it. Thank You Nick! It's funny I'm such a chicken l avoid them clicks if it's got a warning, it's warning for a reason. It's hard to unsee what's been seen so I'm avoiding the news lately.
I’ve just seen this video. The Ukraine situation has certainly knocked the scab off my PTSD. I found myself wanting to actually go and volunteer. This feeling was as ridiculous as it was real. I managed to find a project to fill my time and head! Great video.
Good one.
One of the best channels on UA-cam 👍
I'm not on any social media. I have an app blocker on my phone which stops UA-cam and BBC news. Also getting a dog is a great help - forces you to get outside. I'm also carving a spoon whilst watching this!
You are definitely right, the news on Ukraine has been affecting me and particularly those around me.
I love your take on things. You are a warrior fighting your PTSD so keep it up. Cheers.
Hi Nick great advice, like to cut up small branches for my Bush box with the thicker stuff like to make tent pegs. I try not to watch the news I don't buy newspapers anymore. But you can't totally shield yourself from it so I go and do something I enjoy
I have been doing this same thing every morning when I wake up.I check in the news to see what's happening in Ukraine. And no word of a lie I started to become very depressed and I did cry. Not afraid to say it. I live in the country so I will be going on some walks and try to become less stressed. Great video my man.
Great bit of scuttle butt information there Nick. i havent watched a television for nearly 3 years due to the constant mind wearing monotony of the "issue" first and now the next problem as harsh as the scenario may be. I am on a journey to just live as stress free as i possibly can. I make leather articles and restore old machines and collect pointless things like old tobacco tins..this just gives me something to chase which harms nothing apart from my wallet in small doses. We all need a bit of a break from the constant media battering. i hope your message gets to millions as it is very valid.