These are some crazy times. With mass closings of schools, theme parks, events, and gathering places we face unprecedented upheaval to our schedules and plans. Suddenly, what we pictured our next month to look like has been upended and we are needing to adapt and process the ever-changing information that is coming from every direction.
All of this is a perfect storm for stress and anxiety.
Into this mix I offer the reminder that NOTHING is permanent. And, I have a question for you: when the crisis is over, will you be proud of how you responded? In the past week as I have watched my own emotions fluctuate with the uncertainty and confusion, I realized the moments where I was most stressed or agitated were when I focused on outward things that I have no control over, rather than inward on myself and what I can do.
To shift out of panic-mode and into solution-mode start by asking yourself “who do I want to be during this time and how do I want to show up?” In a crisis, to think of yourself first is a natural response; however, staying caught in this scarcity mindset will prevent you from helping others while keeping you focused on the problems. This leads to feeling hopeless, demotivated, isolated and paralyzed, which makes it much harder to see what is possible.
If you find yourself caught in the chaos, here are a few practical ways to reground:
All of this is a perfect storm for stress and anxiety.
Into this mix I offer the reminder that NOTHING is permanent. And, I have a question for you: when the crisis is over, will you be proud of how you responded? In the past week as I have watched my own emotions fluctuate with the uncertainty and confusion, I realized the moments where I was most stressed or agitated were when I focused on outward things that I have no control over, rather than inward on myself and what I can do.
To shift out of panic-mode and into solution-mode start by asking yourself “who do I want to be during this time and how do I want to show up?” In a crisis, to think of yourself first is a natural response; however, staying caught in this scarcity mindset will prevent you from helping others while keeping you focused on the problems. This leads to feeling hopeless, demotivated, isolated and paralyzed, which makes it much harder to see what is possible.
If you find yourself caught in the chaos, here are a few practical ways to reground:
| Focus on what you do have.
When there’s a hoarding frenzy it can cause feelings of insecurity and trigger a sense that if you don’t jump into the fray you will be left behind. It makes sense to stock up on a few staples so that you limit your contact with the outside world, but then also take a moment to appreciate everything you do have, it’s probably more than you realize.
When there’s a hoarding frenzy it can cause feelings of insecurity and trigger a sense that if you don’t jump into the fray you will be left behind. It makes sense to stock up on a few staples so that you limit your contact with the outside world, but then also take a moment to appreciate everything you do have, it’s probably more than you realize.
| Connect with a phrase or mantra that helps you reconnect with yourself.
When I notice I am feeling stressed I like to use the familiar: “And this too shall pass” as a reminder that I am not always going to feel this way. By redirecting my focus I give myself the power to shift how I’m feeling.
When I notice I am feeling stressed I like to use the familiar: “And this too shall pass” as a reminder that I am not always going to feel this way. By redirecting my focus I give myself the power to shift how I’m feeling.
| Do something new to engage your mind. Here are a few suggestions:
- Teach yourself something new, like how to make this soup. It's a Greek lentil and spinach soup which looks easy and delicious and is what I will be making for dinner tonight!
- Start learning a new language, Duolingo is perfect for this. There are also many online options offered through local libraries.
- Write an old-fashioned letter to someone. If you know anyone who is feeling isolated during this time, receiving a thoughtful letter could be especially meaningful.
- Do a project you’ve been putting off like cleaning out the garage, organize a closet, paint a room. The sense of accomplishment when it’s done will go a long way to feeling positive and proactive.
| Find a balance between being informed
and being obsessive.
While it’s important to stay up to date with relevant, useful information you will only increase your stress if you don’t give yourself a break from the news!
and being obsessive.
While it’s important to stay up to date with relevant, useful information you will only increase your stress if you don’t give yourself a break from the news!
With a few simple shifts in mindset and behaviors we can get through this crisis more quickly, and with the knowledge that we showed up for ourselves and others with love and compassion. And for heaven’s sake (that was one of my grandmom’s favorite expressions so it makes me smile when I use it) share your toilet paper with someone who needs it.
Wishing you peace and excellent health!
Janna
Wishing you peace and excellent health!
Janna
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