While there is an abundant amount of information that is being pushed out and shared, I wanted to jump in and provide three things you can do during this interesting ride we are all on….
First and foremost, listen to your body…
It is tuned to the rhythm that you have developed. Whatever your “routine” was a day, a week, a month ago. Try to continue to honor that. Your body doesn’t necessarily know the specifics about what it is you do. Your body recognizes the rhythm that it supports for you to effectively navigate the day.
Therefore, while everyone has been asked to do different, try to replace your “normal” activity that is now limited based on “social distancing” or "work from home" with a temporary replacement activity.
- If you get up at 5am and shower…Continue to get up at 5am and shower…
- If you commute to work…Get up and move your body to replicate the process of commuting…
- If you eat lunch at 11:30am…Make yourself lunch at 11:30am…
- If you exercise at 5pm…Move your body at a similar level around 5pm..
By listening to your body, honoring the rhythm, and replacing “normal” movements and activities with “like” movement and activities – you can help yourself navigate this interesting period of time.
Second, get outside…
While we have been asked to “hunker” down and steer clear of social interaction. It is still important and vital to our bodies to get outside and connect with nature. Especially, in the Northwest, the more exposure to natural light, the better for our overall well-being…
- Go for a walk around somewhere with a pleasant view…
- Go for a hike and connect with nature…
- Sit in a lawn chair and take in the sunshine…
- Go for a run and move your body at whatever pace you can handle…
It’s a vital part of our well being to get outside, move our bodies, and be active. Couple that with the benefits of connecting our senses with the natural environment and you’re providing yourself with a natural "emotional" antidote against the current circumstances…
Third, connect with others…
YES, connect with others! We are social creatures. We were not built to isolate from one another and operate separately. Therefore, while we may not be able to be in groups or even small groups, use every means necessary to connect with friends, family, neighbors, etc.
- Take advantage of the time you may have and go through your contacts and call someone you haven’t called in a long, long, long time…
- Take a walk with someone…
- Find a bench, find a view, and have a seat with a close friend and share your experience…
While there are several “hacks” and “strategies” to implement navigating the unprecedented circumstances we are all experiencing. It is important to ground ourselves, honor, and intentionally make time for what makes us human….
Take care of yourself and be well!
