In times of adversity it is important to adjust, and create a self care plan to survive the unprecedented. For proper adjustment self awareness is a key, because you cannot change that which you cannot name. Self awareness is an awareness of internal processes: thoughts and feelings that create your experience of the situation. Let’s explore all possible reactions to the pandemic, consequently, the government’s response to it.
- Fear
- Anger
- Blame
- Sadness
- Denial of the pandemic
- Denial of responsibility
What do we learn during times like this?
Joy and pleasure are an important part of life.
We need to RECHARGE, and the way to recharge is FUN activities, hobbies and interests. Did you know that pleasure and joy plays paramount role in trauma recovery?
Set aside time for activities that bring you joy: movement for ex., going for a walk, dancing, playing sports; spending time in nature or playing with your pet if you have one; connecting with loved ones, listening to music or playing an instrument; engaging with your hobby. Joy is your birthright, and prioritizing joy is a healthful thing to do. Stay clear of limiting beliefs and childhood conditioning that make you feel guilty to engage in leisure activities – selfcare is not selfish.
Support network of family and friends is part of our wellness.
Cultivating and strengthening our social connections helps to reduce depression and anxiety symptoms, raises our self esteem and helps to regulate our emotions. We are social beings and it is only natural to crave social connections. Isolation causes damage to our emotional and mental health because it is against human nature. Allow yourself to ask for support, to reconnect with old friends, to join support groups, participate in social activities, volunteer, and make new friends.
Note: do not confuse social STATUS with social CONNECTEDNESS: chasing social status does not contribute to mental health; feeling included, connected and accepted for who you are does.
Having structure and a routine gets us through difficult times.
Being organized is a life skill we need to acquire. One of easiest ways to implement the skill into your life is by creating a morning routine that you would enjoy. Here are a few samples of a healthy morning routine:
1.
– wake up and do stretch exercises (10 min)
– 20 min meditation
– tea or coffee (or lemon water) and think about your intentions for the day (5 min)
– get ready while listening to your favorite music or a podcast (45 min)
2.
– wake up and get yourself a cup of coffee or tea (10 min)
– go for a walk, followed by exercising (90 min)
– take a shower and get ready while listening to your favorite music (45 min)
– plan your day (10 min)
3.
– wake up and read inspirational book (20 min)
– get ready while listening to your favorite music (15 – 45 min)
– have a healthy breakfast (20 min)
– plan your day (10 min)
Morning routine can include outside walk, yoga, stretches, walking you dog, gym, reading, setting intentions for the day, listening to a podcast, journaling, planning your day, spiritual practices, contrast shower, dry brushing, self-massage, getting ready, healthy breakfast, meal planning for the day, taking supplements, and anything else you find useful or pleasant.
4. Putting time aside for self care is a responsible and adult thing to do – without it we cannot function and we cannot take care of our responsibilities. What are the other things you have learned during these unprecedented times?
Resources:
Books, Podcasts, Apps, YouTube Meditations