The Importance of Acknowledging Where You Are (and what you can do about it)
Today we are bombarded with messages about social distancing. We are told that we need to engage in shelter in place. While we may not be able to physically be where we want to be, we can still make the best of wherever we need to be right now. Here are a few thoughts on how to help yourself just be in this difficult time.
Realize that it is okay to feel however you feel at this time. Some people are using this time to be very productive. Perhaps you are getting stuff done around the house, or perhaps you are catching up on projects for your business. There are others who are having trouble just getting through the day. Pandemics can induce anxiety and be a traumatic experience. That anxiety and fear can certainly be draining, which is why it is most important to show compassion to yourself during this time. If you go through one day and check everything off your to-do list, great. If you get up and take a shower and eat something-that is also great. At this time, health needs to be a priority-sometimes that health may mean resting your mind and respecting how you feel in that moment. This does not mean that you have to stay in that space, but in order to move forward, it’s important to pay attention to that step.
Find time to nourish your mind, body, and soul. This nourishment is going to look different as it is based on each individual. Again, there is no need to compare yourself to others. Instead, perhaps now is the time for some self-exploration. When I work with clients, I tend to ask them “what do you need right now”? This is a powerful question to ask, particularly in a time of increased anxiety globally. That anxiety takes a toll on our bodies and can weaken our immune system through the level of stress that we experience. Over the past few weeks, I’ve heard several doctors mention that now is the best time for us to focus on our wellness. This includes our emotional health. Perhaps now is the time to think of what you might need to strengthen yourself during this particularly stressful time. For example, perhaps you decide that now is the time to start cooking at home instead of eating out. Maybe you start that workout plan, or perhaps you decide to engage in prayer or meditation for your spiritual health. Now is a great time to build those habits, if that is what you need for your overall wellness. Also, be sure to connect with loved ones-social distancing does not mean isolation. Reach out for support as needed.
Create your own new “normal”. As humans, we tend to experience anxiety when things feel like they are out of our control. Not having a set structure for yourself can also attribute to depression. Thus, it can be helpful to consider things that are within your control. For example, if you ware working from home, what kind of schedule can you set up for yourself? You can use your list of things that you need (see point #2) and then create a schedule that you can follow on a regular basis. However, remember that self-compassion! It’s alright if you don’t do everything on your schedule. However, including basic things that do seem manageable on a daily basis can be beneficial to your overall sense of wellness.
Keep your boundaries intact. Right now, everyone is having their own reaction to things. While it is important to reach out for support and be supportive, it is still important to make sure that you are keeping a safe space for yourself. It’s okay to not answer the phone at times. It is alright to turn off the news for a bit. Monitor your needs and don’t be afraid to speak up for what you need (or don’t need) at that moment.
I hope that you are able to use these tips to help you be where you are right now. Remember that this too shall pass and then you may be in a different space there, but while you are here, try to take care of yourself in the best way now, in preparation for a better future.