Humans are wired to survive and to predict our environment.

Large-scale uncertainty drains our nervous sytem.

Micro moments of noticing the beauty around us can help regulate our nervous system.

Such glimmers do not solve uncertainty or large-scale issues, but do help us to cope.

This morning, I am returning to work after two weeks of annual leave. Sitting at my desk, I can hear, ever so softly, the news channel playing in a neighbouring unit, streaming in through the open sliding doors. The news presenter is talking about war, bombings, and deaths and displacements. Rising fuel prices, housing shortages, and cost of living hikes. The world feels uncertain for many people. Even those of us lucky enough not to be directly affected by war or famine can struggle with an uncertain, often harsh world.

My eyes dance around my desk, landing on the beautiful, vibrant pink flowers sitting next to my laptop. I bought them yesterday, to keep me company today while returning to work after two weeks of annual leave. Small moments of beauty, I have found, help regulate my nervous system when the world feels uncertain, a bit anxiety-inducing, or simply too much for the moment.

Why are small moments of beauty like this so important when the world feels uncertain?

The psychological impact of large-scale........

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