Finding peace of mind in these uncertain times
Taking control - from the inside out..
As we are faced with daily news and stories of the latest dramatic repercussions of COVID19, it can be hard to stay positive. In fact, many of us are living with a dark grey lump lodged in the pit of our stomach. It’s called fear.
Besides feeling scared of getting infected yourself, you may be worried about an aging relative, of losing your job or business, or not being able to pay your rent or mortgage. And if you’re in self-isolation, you may also be anxious about being alone, of not having enough food and supplies, or of not being able to get out to help others. These can indeed be a heavy weight to bear.
There is much in the world over which we have no control. The virus, the casualties, the media, the stats. While we cannot change these things, we do have control over how we respond to them. Worrying about something bad happening is not going to prevent it happening. If we allow fear or anxiety to dominate our daily lives, we diminish our capacity for resourcefulness, for creativity, for kindness, and for love.
Five things you can do to help your peace of mind:
1. Acknowledge your fear or anxiety
Fear is a natural and healthy response when facing threatening events. It is designed to keep us alive. Anxiety is a normal reaction to uncertainty. In times like these, fear or anxiety are inevitable and should be acknowledged. I am not suggesting you try to suppress these emotions, but instead understand and accept what they are. Get clear on exactly what you are afraid of. Notice if you have the fear - or if the fear has you. It can be helpful to write them down, get them out of your head.
2. Focus on ‘What is’, not ‘What if…’
Be present to this very moment - to what is going on with you right now. Notice where you’re sitting or standing and scan your body to see where you’re holding any tension. Be mindful of your breathing-in and breathing-out, noticing the rise and fall of your chest and appreciate the life-giving oxygen flowing to and from your brain. Notice the fear and accept it for what it is. It’s OK. Meditation is a calm and effective way to ground yourself in the present moment. When those worrying thoughts creep in about what might lie ahead, know that worrying changes nothing, so let them go. Accept the things you cannot change and make a plan to take action on those you can.
3. Connect with your authentic self
While social and self-isolation can be a scary thing for some, it is also an opportunity for deep self-reflection and self-connection. Without the usual distractions of shopping, playing sports, or meeting friends for drinks, it is easy to feel lonely after a while, and possibly to slide into a vortex of negative emotions. So instead, take this time alone to think about what you want to do with your life, and look for purpose and meaning beyond our current crisis. Writing can be a helpful witness to really getting to know your authentic self. Designing your life and focusing on a more positive future not only reduces fear but also boosts your immune function.
4. Find something to appreciate
For all of us, it’s easy to get caught up in the news and the wave of negativity that is sweeping across our planet. So instead of getting swept downward in a spiral of fear, find something to appreciate, look for something positive. There is a silver lining if you look for it. There will be something, if not many things, that you can be grateful for. But you have to go find them with intention, otherwise all you’ll see is fear or anxiety. Right now, concentrate on something positive and meaningful.
5. Think of new ways to connect with others
In these times, our relationships with others become ever more important. In your social or self-isolation, find other ways to reach out to friends, family and neighbours. Anxiety is contagious, so is kindness. So while you may become aware of other people’s distress and needs, stay true to your authentic self - be a good listener and offer calm support. You will both benefit from this connection.
I want to help ….
I myself am in self-isolation as my husband recently returned from England. While we too worry about issues relating to health, business and paying the mortgage, we know there are many others in much worse shape than us. At least we have each other in our isolation.
While I may not be able to remove your fear, nor come and sit on the couch beside you, I can still use my experience as a certified Integral and Purpose Coach to help you find some peace of mind and a more positive way forward in these uncertain times.