We are in very uncertain times and not being in control or knowing the future can be overwhelming. The spread of the Coronavirus is unsettling to say the least, and I for one never thought I’d experience something like a global pandemic in my lifetime, but, here we are. I can’t stress the importance of social distancing- this is a hard one because as humans we are social beings. However, we are fortunate to live during a time where technology allows us to connect via facetime, skype and other online avenues, allowing us to see and speak to our friends and family whenever we want.
I think it’s safe to say that everyone is a little nervous about what lies ahead, but I think now more than ever we need to keep calm, carry on and use the precious time we have with loved ones to make the best of it.
Some tips below to help you through these hard times:
Practice mindfulness
When life presents us with the unpleasant and the unwanted it’s hard to feel like you’re in control.
I get it.
I have always turned to meditation during difficult times. Try closing your eyes and take a long slow breath, or as many times as it takes to calm down. Breathing consciously brings me back to myself and reminds me that the world is still turning, birds are still singing and the sun is still shining.
Sweat it out
While many gyms are closed to help stop the spread of germs, you can still get an endorphin-producing, mood-boosting workout at home. Many top trainers are sharing their workouts on social media and some gyms are offering at-home workouts for members via an app. Whether you choose one of these fitness options or start a dance party in your kitchen, (my favorite!) you can stay inside and still sweat it out.
Donate
Canadians are emptying store shelves and stockpiling nonperishables as fear rises over the
coronavirus. Some food banks have seen significant decreases in donations. While
volunteering in person at a food bank is not advised at the moment, there are still ways you can
support charities. For example, you can donate online or raise awareness by spreading the
message on social media. Some of my favorite charities can be found below:
https://foodbankscanada.akaraisin.com/Donation/Event/DonationInfo.aspx?seid=21925&mid=48
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/donate
https://unitedwaysem.org/covid-19-donation-page/
https://www.gofundme.com/f/bread-for-the-community
https://www.gofundme.com/f/covid19-relief-fund
Treat yourself
Draw a bubble bath, bake some healthy treats, listen to music you love. Spend time with your kids and significant others. Read a book, write a note, listen to a podcast, and be productive. Most importantly do what you can for your community and those around you by doing your part. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. Remember, we are all in this together and we will prevail!