Self-Care in a Time of Crisis
How do we practice self-care during a time that feels especially challenging? Often when we are in overwhelm or uncertainty, it can feel counter-intuitive and even indulgent to allow for “me time”, but it is truly during these times that you need it. Whether you are worried about losing your job, behind on payments, nursing a loved one back to health, or just anxious about the state of the world and your place in it, nothing should come in the way of creating some space each day to slow down, check in with yourself, and do something kind for YOU.
Image: Henk Mul
FRESH AIR. Such a simple thing we most often take for granted, but one easy way to lift your spirits is to take a moment, set down your phone or laptop (or both!) and get outdoors. Take a walk (while you can! Practicing social distancing of course at this time), sit on your balcony or fire escape, or just open a window and let the breeze blow in. According to Rebecca Taylor, a wellbeing advisor at Kent-Teach, fresh air improves your immune system, heart rate, mood, blood pressure, digestion, and cleans your lungs.
Image: Emma Dau
JOURNALING, SCRAPBOOKS VISION BOARDS: Take some time for personal reflection. How are you currently responding to the changes in your life? What is impacting you in the world and how are you reacting to it? What do you appreciate in your life? Are there things you want to change, learn, share, experience? Write it all down. Cut out pictures in magazines that inspire you, or dig out all the old mementos you have saved from special moments in your life and make a collage, vision board, scrapbook. Get creative and indulge in some crafty fun. Or just pour your heart out in a notebook until you feel a deeper sense of peace. Many therapists recommend to write in a journal daily as a way to clear your mind, let go of anxieties or upsets, and to purge the clutter of the mind to create space for greater self-awareness and presence.
READ A BOOK. A great way to get some perspective and to challenge your beliefs, your perceptions, your true depth of knowledge is to pick up a book and teach yourself something new. Of course we do recommend blogs, audible books, and even a good inspirational film, but dedicating time and committing to completing a book, whether that be for wisdom or inspo, really is a gift to self. In 6 Science-Backed Reasons To Go Read A Book Right Now (via huffpost.com), Laura Schocker revealed that of 1,000 people surveyed, about 1/3 of those people had not read a book in the last year. She further explains that reading books can help you maintain a sharp brain, be more empathetic, have better sleep, and even ease depression. Why not put this theory to the test, and go flip open that book you’ve been procrastinating reading;: No better time than now.
Book Recommendations (all available on Audible or for purchase online at barnesandnobel.com):
Maybe You Should Talk To Someone - Lori Gottlieb
A Fierce Heart: Finding Strength, Courage, and Wisdom in Any Moment - Spring Washam
Becoming - Michelle Obama
Wake Up To What Matters: A Guide to Tibetan Buddhism for the Next Generation - Avikrita Vajra Sakya
An American Marriage - Tayari Jones
Wild - Cheryl Strayed
Image: Dane Wetton
OGA & MEDITATION : Y&M have gone from hot buzz words to the norm in recent years with practice becoming so popularized that they are offered in many work, school, and even vacation environments. Tuning in and grounding down have allowed more people to manage their ever-increasing life demands. Taking a daily pause to be present with oneself, whether that is sitting counting breaths or activating a crow pose, is one of the best ways to create clarity and balance.
Recommended Books on Mindfulness:
Relax and Be Aware: Mindfulness Meditations for Clarity…by Doug McGill and Sayadaw U Tejaniya
The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh