The world feels strange. Its very disconcerting right now. We just don’t know what to expect.
Here are some things you can do to take the edge off…
Breathe
Most of us don’t breathe right in the first place, and when we’re anxious, its even worse. We breathe quick, shallow breaths.
A few times a day, and when you feel anxious, do some deep breathing.
- Sit up straight
- Push all of the air out of your lungs through pursed lips. Your abdomen should collapse.
- Breathe in through your nose slowly for a count of 8. If you are doing this correctly, your abdomen will fill like a balloon. Your upper chest should not move much.
- Repeat 8-10 times.
Sleep
Its important to keep a regular schedule and get enough sleep. We didn’t even have time to recover from the switch to Daylight Savings Time before this crisis hit. You are stronger both physically and emotionally when you are well rested.
Eat Well
Again, good nutrition keeps you strong, and fortifies your immune system. You need your fresh fruits and vegetables. It was disturbing to me to see canned and frozen foods wiped out, yet the produce section was well stocked.What are people thinking?
You also need fat. Well, your brain needs fat. Your arteries do not. Fat soothes us. It makes your brain function smoothly. It helps your body absorb nutrients. But the wrong kinds of fat can clog your arteries. Eat mostly healthy fats – avocado, olive oil, nuts, salmon.
Exercise is a great way to eat stress. If its nice out, take a walk. Getting outside and walking delivers a double stress busting benefit. If you can’t get outside, you can dance, or walk in place, or check out any number of exercise videos on YouTube. There’s everything from walking workouts, to yoga, to Zumba, to hip-hop. Find something fun!
Laughing also reduces stress. We don’t do it enough. Watch some funny movies. Call your friend that always jokes around. Listen to your kid’s silly jokes. Find your sense of humor.
Stay in touch by phone or face time. We are social creatures. We need people. Isolation is the worst thing for us right now. As the old phone commercial said, “Reach out and touch someone.” (I know, probably before your time…)
Pray
Praying, meditation and journaling gives us a sense of peace and calm. It helps you get it out of your head
Remember, this too shall pass.
All you can do is your best. It is what it is, and it will end.
Chin up Buttercup! We’ve got this!
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