Posted on March 16, 2020
We are living in very uncertain times right now with everything that is transpiring as a result of COVID-19. Many are feeling anxious and worried and for many this worry is quickly spiraling out of control into panic and hysteria. Even those like myself that don’t usually get caught up in the fear mongering of the news or social media, can get caught up by those around us freaking out. Many in my community who are also calm and pretty centered are wondering whether we should be more worried. People are fighting over toilet paper for goodness sake.
It is the fear of the unknown and the uncertainty of what may transpire over the coming weeks and months that is making people feel like they may no longer be in control of their lives. This is especially true for those who have yet to realize that we are actually not ever in control and us being busy and productive in society is just an illusion making us think that we are in control.
The only true power that we as human beings were given is free will. Therefore, we can choose to stay as calm as possible, anchored and embodied in our practice or we can choose to let fear get the best of us. The stress associated with this type of prolonged anxiety has negative effects not only on our mental wellbeing but also our immune system, ultimately making us more susceptible to becoming sick.
When I say “stay with love”, I do not simply mean that love will conquer all and that we shouldn’t take this seriously. Of course, we should follow all guidelines as well as common sense and reason but let’s think about what we can do from a place of love in order to not be swept up in the increasing fear and panic.
Ways To Stay with Love
Stick With Your Self-care Routine
Although getting manicures and massages have their place, I am more referring to the practices that allow you to stay calm and centered as much as possible. Now more than ever, we have to put to use what we have been practicing for and we have to pay attention to our mental wellbeing. We have our routines of meditation, breathwork, journaling, and working out but now is when we have to put these practices to use to help us stay embodied and to help us stay calm in the midst of chaos. Whatever you do on a regular that makes you feel anchored and embodied – DO MORE OF THAT.
Move Through Fear
Energy can get stuck in our body and cause more stress and negative health consequences. If you feel yourself getting anxious, move your body to release the energy. You can do this by dancing in your living room to some upbeat music, doing an in-home workout, or (as long as we are still able) by going for a walk or run in the park. You can also release stuck energy by orgasm 😊
Find Reasons To Laugh
Part of being mindful is choosing to shift your mood when you find yourself getting lost in your thoughts. You can actively choose to find reasons to laugh. Watch comedy, play with a small child or get in touch with your inner child and get silly. Find ways to lift your spirits.
Nourish Your Body
Properly nourish your body with plenty of rest, nourishing foods and plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. When we aren’t properly rested, it is easier for our minds to get swept up in the fearful talk of our ego and our surroundings, which in turn will compromise our immune system. Pay attention to your body and how you are reacting and use your resources and toolkits to take care of yourself.
Be Of Service
Think compassionately about others. It is not about just keeping yourself and your family safe, but this is also a time to come together and take care of our local, national and global communities. Who in your circle might need a little extra help? Take care of the elderly and immunocompromised and look out for those that are living paycheck to paycheck. Check in on your friends that have a tendency to go into depressive thoughts, especially when they feel isolated. Call them or better FaceTime them.
We might have to isolate socially for a while but we certainly do not have to isolate emotionally. This time of chaos and uncertainty can also be an opportunity for healing for many of us. We can find beauty and joy even in times like these if we stay open to it, beautifully demonstrated by the Italians singing to come together. We are all being given an opportunity to slow down, to connect with self, and to remember what is truly important. Let’s do our best to stay with love during these fearful times and support each other the best we can.