Corona Virus: 5 Things We Can Do

The Corona Virus has launched us into unchartered waters. We are fearful, anxious, and upset. The Corona Virus is robbing us of our normal way of life, and there is much which we cannot do. In order to help navigate this storm, let's take advantage of  5 Things We Can Do. 


1) Remain Calm
The yucky news is that we know we are in a horrible situation where there are many things out of our control. However, the reassuring news is we can choose how we respond to it. Utilize any of the following practices to help alleviate or reduce stress, overwhelm, anxiety, and depression.
First, throughout the waking day:
  • Pray or meditate (several times a day)
  • Practice deep breathing (easy to do all throughout the day)
  • Exercise or work out
  • Give yourself permission to take a nap
  • Embrace low impact body/mind exercises such as yoga or pilates
  • Go outside and play or take a long walk in nature 
  • Play all kinds of games (board, cards, and "some" video games)
  • Create: write, sing, draw, color, paint, sculpt, play act, practice an instrument, cook, build or make things, etc.
One of the best activities for remaining calm or to calm down is to create. We cannot think two opposing thoughts at the same time. And when we are creating, our minds are centered on our projects, not our current circumstances. One of my clients recently shared that when she is sculpting, she is completely focused. In fact, she is totally immersed into her art. She said, "For the two hours or so when I am sculpting, there are no worries, or sadness, or sorrow. I am at peace." 

Next, in the evening or two hours before bed time:
  • Read a good book or read with your children
  • Listen to your favorite music
  • Take a long hot shower or bubble bath
  • Watch a funny, loving movie (one which makes you smile inside)
  • Do NOT watch the news or any programs which might negatively impact you.  Put away digital devices, especially for children.
The more anxiety and worry we can release during the day, the better we will feel. Also, we will be able to sleep better at night. Whatever healthy practice you can think of, make it part of your daily routine and your family's. 

2) Stay Informed 
Stay Informed but..... do NOT overdo it!  This contributes to overwhelm and upset!
  • Read or watch news in the morning and in the evening - no more than 2 hours total. 
  • Carefully monitor how much your children are taking in.  Talk to them age appropriately, but do not give them too much. They need reassurance and love, and lots of it. 
  • Be careful of false information. Stay with sources you trust.
3) Plan for Your Needs 
Planning for your needs is more tricky than it was just a few days ago. And every day, it is most likely to get more challenging. However, I encourage you to do two things:

One: Make a list of all your needs, not wants. Remember, this is a list of needs such as food, medications, shelter. Then, go back and prioritize them. Cut out anything that isn't necessary. Involve the entire family if children are old enough and if the process can be done in a gentle way. This is a great opportunity for everyone to see you are "all in this together."

Two: If you do not already done so, create a "budget" for you and your family. The idea of  a "budget" is to know how much money is coming in and and how much it takes to meet your basic needs. I understand that this can be VERY FRUSTRATING as this crisis is fluid and things are changing rapidly. However, instead of living in chronic anxiety-ridden limbo,  it is always better to know where you stand, what you have to work with, and for how long you can make things work. Also, living under a budget helps in making tough decisions as you plan for the next week and month.

Take it day by day.  Revisit your budget. Make adjustments as your situation changes. Remember, we are all hoping for the best. But, we must plan in case that doesn't happen.

During the best of times as well as the worst of time, I've always kept a "budget," For me, there is a measure of control knowing exactly where I stand financially. And yes, there were times when I was very fearful and living in scarcity.  And, I got through it, just as you will. We will.


4) Implement Health and Social Guidelines
As I am writing this, there are some variations in the Health and Social Guidelines from state to state in the United States, and there are variations from country to country. Thus, the recommendations are really pretty simple:

One: Follow the Health and Social Guidelines of your state or country. 
Two: As several expert doctors have stated, behave as though you have Corona Virus. 

This morning as I was out walking, I passed by the tennis and pickle ball courts in my community. At first, I smiled as I saw a group of older citizens enjoying a game of pickle ball. By the time I rounded the corner, six seniors were huddled together by the net, laughing and congratulating one another with pats on the arm or back. I gasped as I witnessed two of them share a towel! Being outside is wonderful, as is getting exercise. But the social distancing which was in place during the game was non-existent. Whether we are younger or older, none of us is immune.  

We all miss human connection. I understand. As we practice social distancing, there is one more important thing we can do.

5) Draw Closer Emotionally

In California, we are "sheltering in place." Thus, the only folks we are connecting with on a more intimate level and face to face level are those with whom we are living. It is critical that we maintain a close emotional connection, especially when we are so isolated from others.

Although I have written and spoken about concerns over too much screen time...
Now is the time to connect indirectly through all the wonderful social networking sites and platforms!! Yes! Now more than ever!! Especially when we are so isolated and alone.

And the beauty is that it is already happening! Friends are checking in more often. Online group play dates are taking place. With travel restrictions, families are drawing closer through face to face platforms and chats. My daughter shared with me that she and her husband had fun participating in their wine tasting group - virtually that is! 

We can do this.We can get through this.  When you are feeling sad, depressed, anxious, or stressed, lean into your technology. 

Connect and Draw Closer Emotionally 
You are not alone. We are in this together.

For more healing resources, visit Holli Kenley



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