Helloooo Friends!
It’s been a while! I took an unexpected break from blogging, but I’m officially back at it and it feels so good to be writing again. I’ve missed you all! And even though it’s only been a couple of months since my last post, the world feels very different than it did back in January.
Just about all of us are experiencing some effects of the world-wide spread Corona Virus right now. And as a result, many of our lives have changed quite drastically in a very short period of time.
To be honest, it feels really heavy for me to think about all the ways people are currently struggling and suffering around the world. Especially as I recognize my personal privilege and relative comfort during this time of crisis. But it’s also been a good reminder that none of our circumstances are ever guaranteed. Life is full of curveballs. But it’s not every day that the whole world is dealt various aspects of the same exact one.
We’re all facing different types of complications that’ve come up due to this pandemic. Some of us much more than others. And all of you are on my mind and in my prayers these days.
For this particular blog post, I thought I’d focus on one struggle that most of us have in common right now: anxiety.
So many aspects of our day to day lives have changed recently. Practicing social distancing has physically separated us from our loved ones and closest friends. Grocery shopping has suddenly turned into a serious risk factor. And a lot of us are spending far more time at home than usual.
Adjusting to all these new dynamics is unnerving to say the least. And getting used to all the changes in life’s rhythm hasn’t been easy. It always takes time getting used to a new normal. And with all the uncertainty around the virus, we have no idea how long this “new normal” will last.
Adapting to change and uncertainty takes more energy than we often realize.
So for today’s blog post, I want to share 5 things that’ve been helping me alleviate some of my own anxiety and settle into a new flow. It didn’t happen overnight, but these particular habits have been paramount in me feeling calmer and more grounded in this current reality. And of course I want to share them all with you!
Are you ready for my list? Here we go:
1. Develop a New Routine:
It won’t look the same as your old one, but that’s ok. Establish some new patterns for yourself to help you get going each day. Doing a few simple things like showering in the morning, changing your clothes, and drinking some tea could make all the difference in how the rest of your day pans out. Having lunch or exercising around the same time every day can help too. Whatever it is that you decide to do, the point is finding a schedule that feels good and works well for you and your circumstances at the moment.
2. Stay in Touch:
Just because we’re physically distancing ourselves more from each other these days doesn’t mean that we can’t stay connected with those we care about. Phone calls, video conferencing, and even voice messaging with our loved ones and friends are all great options for maintaining our sense of connection to each other. And having ways to actually see and hear one another makes a big difference. There are even community events and meet-ups being hosted online these days. Taking advantage of these different avenues for interacting with others is so important right now. We need each other – especially in times of crisis.
3. Get Fresh Air:
Most of us aren’t going very far these days, but you don’t have to stay completely cooped up indoors. Open the windows, sit out on the balcony or front porch, and take walks around the neighborhood. We all need the fresh air. And if you’re spending most of the day at home, getting outside for a bit will give you a nice change of scene, a chance to move your body a bit, and probably uplift your mood too.
4. Limit News and Information Intake:
There’s A LOT of news coverage and social media posts about COVID-19 these days. But you don’t have to tune into all of it. Pick out a few sources of information that you trust and ignore the rest. It’s far too overwhelming otherwise. And information overload isn’t good for your mental or physical health. You can stay informed without getting totally inundated by all the news out there.
5. Take Time to Rest and Reset:
There’s a lot of talk lately about taking advantage of this unique time. And while this is a nice sentiment, it’s going to mean something different for each of us. Not everyone has the time, energy, or interest to learn a new skill or do something seemingly “productive” right now. The whole world is experiencing a new and scary situation. It’s ok to feel unsure, worn out, and frustrated. So try to take the pressure off and give yourself permission to squeeze in some rest however you can. Take more deep breaths, light some candles, draw up a bath for yourself, take a nap… do anything that makes your day feel even a little more restful. It’ll give you the energy you need to handle everything else.
Most of us never imagined life looking like it does these days. Things are pretty weird right now. And being mostly at home can bring all kinds of drama, trauma, and uncomfortable feelings to the surface. If that’s been the case for you, know that it’s totally normal. Life is feeling extra stressful and that stress will show up in different ways.
It’s the list above that’s been helping me manage and adapt during these strange times. How about YOU? What’s one thing that’s helping you adjust to this new normal? And (for bonus points!): what’ve you been learning about yourself in the process? I’d love to hear about your thoughts and personal experiences in a comment below this post or an email!
Peace and blessings,
Hanaa
P.S. – Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uninspired by your life? Is there a challenge you’re facing or a goal you’d like to work towards? If you’re ready to take a bold, true leap in your life, I can help you. Click here to schedule a FREE discovery session with me.