I hope that if you are able to read this, the year 2020 has so far found you safe, healthy, and ready to welcome some of the joy that warm weather and sunshine bring. We have all endured some degree of uncertainty over these past few weeks, and many of us are feeling fragile to the forces that are far greater than even the strongest and most capable among our nation.
Despite these vulnerable times, we can still find joy and greatness in the small things. The calming sound of ocean waves, children laughing outside, family walks in the sunshine – these are all not lost on us. No matter how you have been affected, I can only hope that the lens in which you now see the world can focus on the truly important things in life – health, happiness, and the ability of our people to adapt and unite.
Undoubtedly, these past few weeks have taken a toll on our mental health for many of us. It is hard to stay positive if you are dealing with illness, stress, financial difficulties, isolation, or anything else that a pandemic may bring. Fear and anxiety are natural responses to trauma. They are essentially our bodies’ way of using its hardwiring to cope with whatever obstacle we are faced with in order to stay safe and out of harm’s way.
However, prolonged periods of these feelings can start triggering negative effects on not only our minds, but our bodies as well. It is important to do a mental “check-up” from time to time and practice habits that support a healthy, positive outlook. I offer some tips below that may help if you’ve been feeling especially down recently. It is always important to discuss any issues with anxiety or depression with your healthcare provider – even in mild situations. We may have a new way of life now, but the essence of our human nature and spirit can’t keep us down for long.
Stay Active
Research has long shown that physical activity can increase endorphins, help take your mind off of worries, and otherwise generally decrease feelings of anxiety and depression. Even just a brisk walk outside can be very beneficial. More structured exercise regimens can also be achieved online these days. We may be limited or still somewhat nervous to join classes and gyms, however online portals like YouTube and Zoom can make virtual exercise classes possible. Many of the local businesses also have online classes available, and participating is great way to support. From yoga to boxing, or even Tai Chi – the possibilities online are endless! One benefit is that if you’re nervous about trying something different, no one will judge in the comfort of your own home!
Practice Spirituality
There have been several well-conducted studies that greatly connect spirituality to feelings of happiness and psychological well-being. Studies have also found that spirituality is linked to lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as lower levels of mental burnout and increased resilience among people. Spirituality is a very subjective concept in that it broadly encompasses your own individual perspectives, priorities, and thoughts on life. It does not necessarily mean an organized religion, however practicing your faith can greatly help you through tough, uncertain times. To be spiritual means having faith, being grateful, and taking time to appreciate the beauty and small things in life – in whichever manner you wish to do this!
Maintain Social Contact
We may have been limited in physical contact these past several weeks, but technology can help us to maintain connections and social interactions. Chat with friends on the phone, online, or through video conferencing. We can even find ways to resurrect “snail mail” with letters, cards, pictures, pieces of artwork, or special articles from newspapers or magazines. I am very traditional in that I still love to send or receive a card or hardcopy invitation in the mail. My children recently sent their great-grandmother who is residing in a nursing home an Easter card with photos of them frolicking in the sand. I have seen very impressive and creative ways of keeping in touch recently! Volunteering is also another social way to take your mind off of personal problems and help instill a sense of pride and purpose. Humans are social creatures, and the maintenance of these connections through whichever means possible is vital to our well-being, no matter the situation we are in.
Get Back to Basics
One thing I have learned while parenting small children during a quarantine is that there is peace and comfort in practicing the simple things in life that were instilled in so many of us, but are sometimes easily forgotten. Cooking meals at home; not wasting food; letting the kids play freely; rounding up the family for our “livestream” of Sunday Mass; finding joy inside the home and taking pride in its maintenance; teaching children that creativity, imagination, and autonomy are more important than scheduled activity – these are all practices that focus on what life truly should be about and never seem to go out of style. Modern luxuries and material items are nice and meant to be enjoyed, but we shouldn’t let them deter from the basic principles of life satisfaction. At the end of the day, you will find comfort in life’s simplicities.
It is my sincere hope that no matter your situation, this summer of 2020 will be the “rainbow after the storm” of sorts and finds you with peace and joy!
This article was written for The Roasted Beat, Summer 2020 Edition 1
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