Three things I know about living amid the pandemic…
We all feel intense emotions almost continually now instead of or in addition to our usual ups and downs. Fear, loss, disappointment, loneliness, and even anger is likely to be triggered daily if not numerous times per day as we are reminded of the restraints on our lives. These emotions create stress. Stress increases our cortisol levels, wreaking more havoc on our bodies. And the idea we aren’t in control of it all increases anxiety which can leave us in an on-going state of “fight or flight”. If there was ever a time to learn deep breathing exercises, guided imagery, yoga, or meditation, it’s now. Taking time to watch a YouTube video about any of those is something you can control. Spending 5 minutes focused on your breath will give you the calm to continue your day or to go to sleep.
Isolation can be a good thing for a time. We need to sit in quietness and reflect, gain insight, and sometimes face ourselves. But we need people! COVID changed our lives to the extent we even left our offices, some of us permanently, and we spend our day on the computer or phone. Make sure you engage with others. No, it’s not the same without the hugs and handshakes but Aunt Sue can still make you laugh over Facetime. Get outside! Go play outside! You can have date night in the backyard on a blanket watching the stars. Go camping, even in the backyard. Go watch the sunset. Take a walk with someone. Be safe but connect!
We don’t all agree on everything about the current situation, but I think we all know that underlying medical conditions can determine how sick we get if we get the virus. Here again is something you can have some control over. Start today to heal your body with the nutrients you need. They are right there at the grocery store or in your garden. Food is medicine! Start with a focus on foods that reduce inflammation: berries, grapes, cherries, broccoli, peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms, green tea and more. And eliminate the foods that create inflammation: sugar, white flour, processed foods, and fats.
Summary: It helps reduce anxiety and stress to think of what we have control over. Make a list today!
