“The Sky is Falling!”
Chief Vitalstatistix from the Asterix comic series had much to worry about! He often worried about the sky falling on his head and transferred his anxiety to the Gauls! If you’ve read the Asterix series, it would have tickled your funny bone. But, that was a comic book.
This is reality.
In the time of the COVID-19 scare, anxiety levels are running high. Grocery shelves are going empty, people are feeling threatened, and there is an impending sense of doom.
Yes, precautions are vital. The threat of the Coronavirus is on the rise. Every person is operating from a level of fear that is transferring to others around them. As a certified Life coach and counselor, I’ve witnessed a rise in the number of people who are feeling they are alone, trapped in a box. The brain has moved to the fight-or-flight response as we continue to get loaded with news by the minute, feeling overwhelmed with every update. The need to curb social interaction has created its share of insecurities giving space to more fear in the mind.
Yes, things are not in control. And, you cannot always be in control. Is this a harsh reminder to humans? Are we being tested during tough times? Is this the end of the world?
Can we honestly ride this wave successfully towards the shore?
Stop, take a pause here. And, read on.
10 Ways to Ease the Stress during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Mindfulness is a great way to have a moment-by-moment awareness in your daily life.
Here are my tips to maintain your mental peace during turmoil.
1. Connect with people, virtually
We know social distancing is the global keyword. Use the power of the Internet to connect with your friends. Join groups of your interest, mingle, share knowledge. Speak to people who are having similar issues.
2. Wake up with an intention for the day
Engage your mind to do things you like. Make a plan or a goal-list for the day. This stops the need to constantly check updates online and reduces anxiety.
3. Eat healthy, get your rest
It’s a great time to augment your cooking skills! Eat fresh meals, have those fruits, and take good rest.
4. Focus on abundance
Bring a shift in your thinking patterns. Focus on the things you have, not on the things that you are falling short of. Feel the gratitude release within you.
5. Build your future best self
Working from home will save you long commutes to the office. Use this time to focus on building the best version of yourself. Think, and plan for the future. Build a great strategy that gets you closer to your vision.
6. Increase your meditation
Daily mindfulness meditation connects you with the moment. Meditate every morning and evening to keep your mind at ease.
Change is the only Constant
7. Accept your emotions
Yes, some plans are canceled. You’ve noticed a massive impact on your work and personal life. Accept your emotions. Learn to lead your fear and anxiety towards an optimistic outcome.
8. Invest in an online learning program
Think about this. Your worry has increased because you now have ample time to overthink! Sign up for an online class to add to your skills.
9. Restart your life
If you’ve felt bogged down in your career or personal life, now is the time to think and start afresh!
10. Change is the only constant
Embrace change, adapt to the surroundings. Social isolation is not the end of the world. You are at home, safe with your family. You can use the time to bond better and build meaningful relationships.
As we pass through this phase, let us remember the many things we need to be thankful for…
The gentle breeze that carries sounds of laughter,
The bear hugs we give our loved ones,
Waking up every morning with hope,
Whipping up delicious food,
Rushing to work...
Long conversations with friends,
Munching popcorn while watching a movie,
Dancing to your favorite music,
Purchasing groceries without worry,
Hosting an event,
Romantic dates...
Let’s focus on hope. Light up your life and the lives of people around you.
Let’s hum along to my favorite track - “We are the World” for some mental peace.
You are not alone. If you are experiencing stress due to COVID-19, please talk to our Mental Strength Professional.
Call: +91-82-60-11-22-33 (India) Write to [email protected]
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