Eight Practices for Resilient Spirituality in Times of Chaos
By Ned Abenroth
Photo by John French
Jim Clarke recently joined the Cave and the Fire podcast. At the end of the conversation, he shared these eight practices for cultivating a resilient spirituality in times of chaos. You can listen to the whole episode here.
Jim's Eight Practices for Resilient Spirituality in Times of Chaos
Orient, don't react.
Start your day with 5–10 minutes away from your phone or devices, asking "What actually matters today?" Train your mind to lead with intention rather than urgency.
Micro-acceptance.
When something stressful happens, notice the reflex to resist, then gently shift to "Okay, this is here; what am I going to do?" It's an attitudinal shift.
Use your breath as a reset.
Pause for three slow, deep breaths throughout the day. Let the exhalation be even deeper. Let it come from your body, not your thoughts.
Keep one non-negotiable grounding practice.
Choose one: 5–10 minutes of silence and prayer, a short walk in nature unplugged, or journaling with a few honest questions about what's really going on inside.
Reframe setbacks in real time.
Ask yourself: "What is this asking of me right now?" or "What can still be meaningful in spite of this?"
Stay gently connected to people, even when it's hard.
Send a thoughtful note, really listen to someone, or let yourself be a little more honest than usual.
End your day with an honest, non-judgmental review.
Where did you stay grounded? Where did you get pulled from your center? What were you most grateful for?
Redefine what a good day is.
Try saying: "I stayed present" or "I adapted well and didn't abandon what matters."
Rev. Jim Clarke, Ph.D., has held many roles, including Priest, Professor, Weaver, Elder, Author, & Spiritual Director. Officially retired, he still serves as a consultant for the Spiritual and Human Formation for the Permanent Deacon candidates and their wives for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. He is also an Associate Spiritual Director at the Cardinal Manning House of Prayer for Priests. With a rich academic background in Theology, Depth Psychology, Counseling, Education, and Mythology, Jim is the author of five books and two CD/DVD series, and he has been involved in men’s work since 1995. He is a popular retreat director and conference speaker throughout the Southern California area and beyond.