Staying Grounded During a Pandemic
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The novel coronavirus (COVID19) has taken the term “viral” to a new level. In viral fashion, it has spread quickly throughout the media, bringing with it waves of anxiety and panic. At these times we need the media in order to stay informed of the latest measures that are being taken such as school closings and containment zones. But it can be difficult to keep perspective when there is so much news unfolding in real time and various opinions about how to respond to the outbreak.
Many of you may be working from home as you read this, which could be a welcome change or may be creating new challenges that you hadn’t anticipated. Whatever your situation currently, for many people things feel “off” and there can be a sense of free-floating anxiety that you can’t quite shake. But there are things you can do to stay grounded when it starts to feel like you might have slipped into the Upside Down.
One of the most important things is to find ways to get out of your head. Too much time plugged into the news or social media results in swimming around in what-ifs and worst-case scenarios. Also, if you are working from home, too much time at the computer in general, as well as being isolated indoors, can contribute to an increase in anxiety.
One of the best things you can do to get out of your head is get into your body. Even if you’re avoiding the gym right now, go out, take a long walk and get some fresh air. If you’re stuck indoors, there are things you can do at home. There are tons of online platforms that offer workout programs, from yoga to cardio. Or simply turn on some music and start dancing. But the important thing is to move your body!
When it feels like everything is out of control, you can focus on the things you can control such as hygiene and lifestyle choices. Aside from the hygiene recommendations from public health organizations, you can make choices that will support your immune system such as making sure to get enough rest, eating healthy plant-forward meals and taking supplements that boost the immune system and/or decrease inflammation such as zinc, turmeric and spirulina.
It is also important to realize that what is being reported in the media about the coronavirus is an unfolding news “story.” What I mean is that no one has all the facts, which leaves a lot for the imagination to fill in (usually with fearful fantasies). In other words, the “story” can feel very dramatic when you’re watching or reading it. Not to minimize the seriousness of what is happening, but doing your best to focus on present-focused, absorbing activities like cooking, playing with your children or your pet, or doing some kind of arts or crafts with your hands can take your mind off the drama and put you into a healthier frame of mind.
Another thing I would suggest is to not forget to laugh and find ways to have fun. If you’re stuck at home with your family because you’re working from home and your kids’ schools are closed, it sounds like the perfect opportunity for an evening of board games or YouTube karaoke. If you’re living alone and are feeling more isolated than usual, make the effort to reach out to friends via phone or video conference, especially friends with whom you can have a good laugh.
There are many unknowns with this virus, so forecasting into the future is pointless. We all have to live, make decisions and act one moment at a time. And since we could all stand to be a little more present in our lives, this may not be the worst thing. When your mind does start to spin out, simply plant your feet on the floor (or even better, lie on the floor) and take some deep breaths. Right here, right now you are ok.
The human race has weathered pandemics before, and we will get through this one, as well. It’s good to remember that while the indefinite nature of the situation can be disconcerting, it is nonetheless temporary, as everything is. So take care of yourself, your loved ones and your neighbors until this challenge subsides.