What is going on?!? And how are you feeling about the change and uncertainty around us?

When I looked at some initial thoughts I had jotted down for this post, I realized that things have changed so drastically that I would need to start over. 

I had started a list of “What I’m Grateful for in March” in the spirit of continuing the practice of noticing and celebrating the good. My list including things like March Madness Basketball, Spring Break trips, Starting baseball season… But, these things have been cancelled or postponed. Suddenly so much has changed. It is jarring and unsettling. Still, other things on the list remain, and some new things are emerging. Before I get to my list, let’s talk about the change agent that is on everyone’s mind… the Covid-19 pandemic. 

I know it’s in the news constantly and you have probably been inundated with emails and posts about how to cope. Thus, I won’t go in depth on this, but I’ll share some of my take-aways so far.  

• Do what you can

We can only control so much. Remembering and accepting this is not easy, even in the best of times. And the more that seems out of our control, the more anxious we tend to become. Remind yourself daily to focus on the things you can do and let go of the rest. We can follow health guidelines, wash our hands, practice good self-care, etc.  Just do your best to do what you can.

• Seek balance

While it is important to do what we can– like hand washing and distancing- we need to balance this with focus on things that can help us relax and get our minds off the craziness and non-stop news cycle. Find ways to take breaks and focus on the things we can control and the good things we still have in life.

• Stay in the moment

Try to be in, and enjoy, the present moment. Enjoy your cup of coffee in the morning. Enjoy the sunny days, the flowers that are blooming, the sunset, a good workout, a relaxing bath… This is a great time to work on mindfulness. Consider starting a meditation practice. Using an app like Calm or Headspace can be helpful.

• Look for the unexpected gifts

As I frequently say, there are two sides to every coin. Even challenging situations offer opportunity for unexpected gifts. Look for these things let yourself appreciate and enjoy them. For instance, having more time at home is an opportunity to clean and organize, read more books, have more family time.

• Accept your feelings

It’s normal to feel anxious, frustrated, sad or confused during challenging uncertain times. Try to accept your feelings and normal and part of being human. And remind yourself that you have feelings, but you are not your feelings. Many of our feelings are fear based. And feelings change. Balance support and acceptance of your feelings, with mindfulness and self care.

March Gratitude List                                                  

Here are some things that I appreciate about March:

More hours of daylight

Spring begins  

Spring cleaning

The first spring flowers

A chance to practice mindfulness and gratitude

Experimenting with cooking and using my new air fryer

More time to hang out with my son

Having a business that I can do virtually if necessary

Being able to support people during a stressful time

Articles & Resources                                         

10 Solutions To Save Your Sanity During the Coronavirus Pandemic School Closures

https://www.ahaparenting.com/parenting-tools/family-life/lockdown-kids-busy-corona

What to Do If the Coronavirus Health Guidelines Are Triggering Your Anxiety or OCD

https://themighty.com/2020/03/coronavirus-ocd-anxiety-advice/

The Calm Place – A cool resource for a dose of calm

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/05/style/self-care/the-calm-place-on-the-internet.html?utm_campaign=Content%20for%20Quarantine%20-%20Unconverted&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=84915676&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8CxG1mA_Ih-xOGsGrHSMqqk1Jwy_q_0vLeBhjlF0C5fG86UafKnPrZhfVH0JKoURnO9GfvWZdP256ZDg3i4_h6Ddtj8AVW5vEDbDcANXsIQWnmdOs&_hsmi=84915676

Quotes & Inspiration

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… Let’s choose awkward, brave, and kind. And let’s choose each other.  – Brene Brown

Peace is the result of retraining your mind to process life as it is, rather than as you think it should be.  – Wayne W. Dyer

Affirmation from Louise Hay: Life supports me in every possible way.

News – Now offering Telehealth Virtual Therapy