Staying Sane During Insane Times
Well. It’s been a hell of a few weeks. The world is changing around us. As schools and businesses close, some of us are looking into very uncertain futures. This feeling of helplessness and uncertainty can be unbelievably stressful.
Last night, for the first time since Coronavirus began, my chest seized up. My anxiety began to consume me. My mind reeled. I lay in bed wide awake until 1:00am waiting for sleep to find me despite having to wake up at 4:30am for a final day of work. Even now, writing this post, I feel the tightness in my chest.
The most important thing for all of us right now is to find ways to reduce stress, stay healthy, and find peace. For each of us, this might look different. But I wanted to share some ways that I’ve found help me.
Music: Music feeds the soul. It can put a smile on our face, lull us to sleep, and distract our wandering mind. This is a perfect time to blare tunes and truly dance like no one is watching (cause if you’re stuck at home, no one might be!) It also might be a great time to sit and meditate to the soothing sounds of nature. Find your jam.
Here to help are three new playlists I’ve curated!
Meditation: There is no one meditation that is “right”. There are so many forms it can take. But while we are all quarantined at home, what a perfect time to find the form that works for you! Find 5-20 minutes in your day to sit and just BE. Let your thoughts float freely through your mind and then float right on out. Don’t judge what you’re feeling or thinking, just let it happen. I personally find meditation music to help with the relaxation and mind clearing.
Pranayama and Deep Breathing: Again, with many forms of Pranayama, it’s about finding what works for you. Whether it’s a four second inhale, four second hold, four second exhale, four second hold or Alternate Nostril Breathing, try a few out. We’ve got the time! Breathing deeply is scientifically proven to help reduce stress.
Exercise: You knew this one was coming! It is so important to exercise when we are feeling stressed or anxious, it can be such a release. Go for a walk, a run, a bike ride - the outdoors is NOT cancelled! Or try some at home workouts. Use a chair, a pot, some washcloths, or just your bodyweight.
Yoga: As a follow-up to exercise, Yoga is another amazing way to get your blood flowing as well as restore some inner balance. You will definitely find me trying to get at least 30 minutes in a day while under self-quarantine. Light a candle, play my Be Well playlist, and let the movement flow.
Cook: So cooking does not bring everyone joy. I realize this. BUT, if cooking does bring you joy, then try some new recipes! Maybe even make up your own! Obviously, I have a great number of recipes here on this site for you to try and will soon be adding more (I will get bored and want to bake). Maybe even bake something and bring it to an elderly neighbor who can’t leave their house.
Call a Friend: There is no better time to reconnect with friends and family than when we are all stuck at home! FaceTime now can have up to 20 people in one chat at a time and Skype can do up to 25. Have a virtual party!
Call a Counseling Service: I cannot stress this one enough. If your at home solutions are not enough to help manage your stress or anxiety, ask for help. This is a time that we all need to support each other and ask for help. There are many companies now that do over-the-phone help. If you already have a therapist, good for you! See if they’ll do phone sessions with you.
Let’s all take a collective deep breath. We are weathering this storm together. Stay home, stay well, and try to stay calm.
Breathe In. Breathe Out. Breathe In. Breathe Out.