Warm greetings from isolation!
I know some of you are well-equipped to shelter at home and wait this out, while others find it a struggle. For those looking for structure, here are a few simple strategies for staying well, both physically and emotionally. Using this uncertain time creatively is essential for overall well-being. Amidst the confusion of what the future holds, we still have the capacity to show up for ourselves, our families, and each other in ways that enhance personal and collective well-being and resilience. We can begin by identifying those elements of our daily life that we CAN influence. When we feel out of control and uncertain, it’s a wonderful invitation to define that which remains in our charge and do those things every day.
You can define your personal purpose
How might you contribute, even in the smallest way, during this unprecedented time? Identify what you can do for another and show up for that each day. Look for opportunities to serve that align with your unique gifts. It doesn’t have to be grand, each small act creates momentum toward greater good.
You can choose your words
Some of you are home with your kids, some are caring for elderly parents, others are on the front lines of community care in hospitals. All of these circumstances can be challenging in terms of how we relate to one another. Take a moment to consider how you want to be in your communication during this time? Take some quiet time each day to examine those relationships that trigger reactivity and decide ahead of time and on-purpose how you want to relate in those moments of red zone aggravation or frustration. Challenging times lend themselves to autopilot reactions that bring on regret; engage your prefrontal cortex through the power of a pause, and tap into compassion for yourself and others.
You can structure your day
Routine cultivates feelings of safety. Calendar simple activities ahead of time.Write down the daily plan and include little things that generate a sense of achievement. If you’re on the front line with community care or childcare, schedule your “me” time and your bedtime; stick to it as a means of keeping your reserves strong.
You can choose what you consume
How much we consume and what we consume matters both for our mind and body. Consumption includes screen time, food, and what we choose to focus our attention on. Keeping a simple activity/food/mood journal can empower this important area of well-being and help us identify patterns. This is time to amp up the feel-good activators in your mind and body. What do you know creates feeling your best? Keep it useful and rejuvenating. Sure, we need to pay attention to the news; however, our most important task at present is keeping ourselves mentally & physically healthy.
You can move, dance & sway
Anxiety is housed in the body. Think of it as overflowing energy that has to be released. The best way to release this kind of energy is through burst movement--getting the heart rate elevated, even for 30-seconds, throughout your day. Movement in times of challenge ideally is more than a good morning workout; it’s movement spaced throughout the day. Dancing is a fun way of doing this--it’s great for young and old alike. Think of it as momentary emotional release, letting go of worry and stress. Channel that kid we see in the car next to us at a stop light, jiving to the tunes.
You can create a self-care ritual
Show up for yourself! How might you create self-nurture and perspective in your day? It’s different for each of us. Identifying how to connect with your soul is a cornerstone for overall well-being and reinforcing a centered, calm presence in times of challenge. Experiment with ways to connect with your interior life or find a resource to help you uncover your unique prescription for self-compassion and soul-nurture. When you care for yourself, you’re at your best caring for others.
May each of us do what we can, when we can, and as we can for our collective well-being.
TAKE IT WITH YOU TODAY
This pandemic experience is a massive experiment in collective vulnerability. We can be our worst selves when we’re afraid, or our very best, bravest selves. In the context of fear and vulnerability, there is often very little in between because when we are uncertain and afraid our default is self-protection. We don’t have to be scary when we’re scared. Let’s choose awkward, brave, and kind. ---Brene Brown