Staying Calm in the Face of a Crisis
It’s amazing to think how quickly things can change. Just a few short weeks ago, North Americans were going about their business as usual, perhaps looking forward to a vacation during the Spring Break. Fast forward to now: schools shut down, businesses and restaurants either closing temporarily or drastically altering their hours and services. Social isolation, parents staying home with their children, and feeling like the whole world is in a time-out. It’s enough to make anyone go off the deep end with worry.
There are things you can do if you’re feeling anxious:
1- Breathe. Take a few deep breaths, and keep your attention on inhaling and exhaling, slowly, if possible. Only focus on the air going in and out, if possible.
2- Take it one day at a time. We tend to become overwhelmed when looking at the big picture, so focus on what you can do to make it through the day. If that means everyone in the family has a quiet time for an hour or two so that you can rest and get yourself together, do that.
3- Listen to music.
4- Exercise.
5- Get some fresh air. You can combine step 4 and 5 by simply going for a walk or a bike ride with the kids.
6- Get lots of rest.
I have recorded a seven and a half minute meditation to help you centre and destress, feel free to give it a listen.
Blessings,
Erin