This year found many of us moving from interactive, overscheduled days to living in virtual isolation. Though there can be some sense of relief to step off the fast-moving-train contemplating life choices and cleaning out closets, it can be easy to slip into the mode of not caring. “I am not going anywhere so why bother?” In my family, when feeling gloomy, we head to the closet and put on dressy items, cologne or essential oils, jewelry and sometimes don funny/fancy hairstyles. It is an instant pick-me-up!
Here are a few additional tips to lift you and others up when feeling a bit isolated:
Get up. Make your bed. Take a shower. Get dressed. Eat. Hydrate. You have already accomplished six tasks!
Schedule regular video or phone calls with friends and family. Ask questions, play games, eat a meal together, share your experience. When we share highs and lows others feel free to do the same.
Journal. Reflect on what was, what is, what could be…try writing positives and negatives in a stream of consciousness format. CEC Trainer Meg Durkin recently led us through this exercise during our CEC Trainer Retreat and it was very freeing.
Focus on physical health – do your best to eat well, hydrate, and get out in nature at least once a day, even if you only sit quietly and breathe fresh air. Current research shows 10-20 minutes of natural sunlight may provide enough vitamin D depending on skin tone.
Be of Service. There is no better way to lift ourselves up then to lift up someone else. Write letters. Post positive quotes. Lend an ear to a friend.
Practice Mindfulness. Focus the thoughts on one thing at a time with curiosity and kindness. It can be as simple as noticing the sensation of air moving in and out of your nose as you breathe or listening to a visualization. One of my favorites is on YouTube. Charge up your favorite device, recline comfortably and check out Michael Sealy.
“If we are all alone, then we are together in that too.” Remember, you are not alone in this even though your experience may be different from mine. Everyone is moving through some version of a new normal and at some point it will change again.
RESOURCES that may be of benefit:
SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
In a crisis, Text ‘HOME’ to 741741
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Written by: Sally Delisle, Co-Owner, ChildLight Education Company