In these times of overwhelming stress with many we know suffering, it is very hard to stay positive and not 'languish' - That's the new term for what we have been feeling often in this pandemic. These are a few things that helped me cope with stress to some extent, and hope they work for you too.
1. Walk / exercise: Any dedicated and continuous physical activity for 30-60 mins helps release endorphins, which make us feel good. So taking a walk even within your building or terrace gives the much-needed refresher to let our mind bring focus to important things and not languish.
2. Gratitude journal: This is often advised by therapists to bring positivity to life. It is simply to make a note (physical or digital) of all 10 things you feel grateful for, or happy about in life, however bad the situation is, every once in 4-5 days. It's hard in this situation to come up with that list: They could even be very simple things like not being sick or having a home to live in, or just experiencing a nice breeze in the morning.
3. To-do list: Normally, creating these lists adds to our pressure and stress. But in this scenario, we are helpless and worried about the surrounding tragedy. A to-do list that highlights pending action items that you want to do (in work and personal life) however mundane they are is just a reminder that there is a future, which in itself is a positive thought.
4. Music, prayer, meditation: These are to each their own. Spirituality, devotion, and music are all healing. Whether it is listening to sadguru, or doing Sudarshan Kriya, or performing an elaborate ritual whichever format you prefer, take time out for these acts to get some peace of mind.
5. Play with kids: There is something about the innocence of children and the simple things they find joy in, that act as an elixir to life. If you have kids at home, spend active time having fun with them. Don't just focus on the 'duty' and 'caring' part. If you don't have kids, what are kids' videos posted in family WhatsApp groups for?!
6. Watch funny videos: Laugh out loud, watching your favorite stress-busting movies, sitcoms and comedy shows. Laughter is therapeutic.
7. Talk to people: Spend quality time with family. Keep in touch with friends and acquaintances. Finding out about everyone's well-being, sharing our frustrations and realizing we are all in it helps.
8. Keep a check on COVID talk: This is not counter-intuitive to the above, or to say you should shut yourself off to reality. By all means, talk to people, watch the news, and read about 'black fungus' if you like. But I am saying - keep a tab on how much of your time is going into it. Cap it and remind yourself to come back to your Life Other Than Covid.
9. Volunteer, help & empathize: Where you can meaningfully add value in big and small ways, either through moral support and empathy, or financially, or through your contacts, or by actually delivering goods to the needy, or by providing information, please go ahead and do it! It gives purpose to life. But don't confuse it with hours of internet reading and worrying. That would do the opposite!
10. Art projects: There are many simple activities that give an immense sense of fulfillment even when are we trapped in present. You don't have to be a great artist. Something as simple as creating a collage, or an e-card, or a Zentangle doodle will help. The internet has infinite ideas - just look up!
This is not going to eliminate the inexplicable grief of those whose loved ones are suffering. Still, as life goes on, I have mustered the courage to talk about trying to stay positive, for our sake and for our near ones' sake.
Simple, practical and very effective 👍👍
ReplyDeleteSuper thanks!
Delete