01 Mar Staying Strong In Tumultuous Times

It’s hard to believe we are for at the year mark on our shared Covid-19 journey..  To say that these haven’t been the easiest of times is an understatement.

If you are struggling with the emotional fallout and stress that our situation is causing, we wanted to arm you with some unconventional but effective strategies to help you through.

Now, we all know that things like positive thinking, getting enough sleep, adopting an attitude of gratitude can dramatically change your mindset.  But did you know that simple practices including things like adopting mantras, taking mini-breaks, serving others, and laughing are some of the best ways to cope?

Let’s delve in.

Soothing Mantras

Mantras have been around for over 3000 years and can be traced back to Indian Vedic Sanskrit.  They have proven to be a powerful tool to help reduce anxiety, practice mindfulness, calm, soothe and heal the body and mind.  The definition of the word mantra means That which uplifts the mind.

So whether you have a favorite mantra, set of sounds that you can say out loud or on the search for one, this is something you may want to add to your mental health toolkit.

Some helpful mantras

“Everything will be ok.”

”I choose to feel peace.”

Inhale and say the word: “let”  and then exhale and say the word: “go”

You can also try counting your breaths, or breath and think or say, “in” – “out”, “in-“out”.   If it’s easier you can also listen to some guided meditations or recordings of mantras.

Mini Breaks

When the going gets tough, the tough take breaks.  Seriously.  One of the fallouts of our COVID experience is the relentless nature of the pandemic.  No matter what you do for work, it’s important to carve out time – even a few minutes at a time to take a break.

Creative Mini Break Ideas

1. Take a hot shower or warm bath.
2. Enjoy a hot cup of tea.
3. Doodle.  Seriously.  It’s super relaxing.
4. Read for 10 minutes.
5. Zone out to some of your favorite music.
6. Take a drive.
7. Take a walk.
8. Stretch.
9. Do some deep breathing.
10. Take a cat nap.

Serving Others

One of the best ways to combat your own struggles with the blues, stress or times of struggle in general, is to step outside of yourself and help others.   That can come in the form of volunteering for an organization of your choice, donate to a local food bank, provide support for first responders (prepare meals, cheer them on, write thank you notes, etc.),  tutor children who are distant-learning and if you are stumped, research ways to safely volunteer during COVID.

Laugh, Laugh, and Laugh Some More

They say that laughter is the best medicine.   And it is actually a scientifically proven fact laughter helps to reduce stress, keep your mood in check, and can even improve your health.

Here are some ways to help you get your laughter on.

1. Smile.  Seriously, smiling instantly elevates your move and if you are near anyone, is also highly contagious.
2. Watch funny movies and videos.
3. Listen to funny podcasts.
4. Read funny books.
5. Connect with people and keep the conversation light and upbeat.
6. Seek out comedians and watch their skits
7. Fake laugh until you real laugh.

Now, we want to hear from you.  What are some of your coping strategies during COVID?  Please let us know in the comments.