Whilst we are in lockdown the constant alerts and announcements about coronavirus can be anxiety-inducing and leave you with a lot of questions What should I do or don’t do? How will this affect me, my family and my income? There are several approaches you can take to cope. I found this on the Greater Good Science Center blog page. I think it is a great way of taking care of your mood and wellbeing. Ask yourself these questions on a daily basis (and act on them!):
1. What am I grateful for today?
We might be in lockdown, but that does not mean your mind has to go into shut down. Gratitude is a powerful antidote to depression. Recognising the beauty in the world and bringing it into your life is one easy way to foster gratitude. Take two minutes every day to make a list. Add to it throughout the day. If you’d like to record your gratitudes online and share them with others. Sharing good things is not just uplifting for you, but also to those who receive it.
2. Who am I checking in on, or connecting with, today?
As many have rightly reframed it, it’s not social distance we need, but rather social solidarity while we maintain physical distance. Whilst we are in lockdownPick three people each day to check in on, or connect with by phone, Skype or whatever method you prefer. If you are not in the higher risk group, reach out to those who might need your support. If you are, reach out and get more support. It helps to talk!
3. What beauty am I creating, cultivating, or inviting in today?
Beauty is a powerful antidote to despair and if you look and listen, smell and taste, you can find beauty all around you every day. All you need to do is taking note. But you can do more, become a creator, not just consumer. Write or, draw our dreams, sing, plant gardens, cook for yourself or your neighbours, or jot down new ideas of how things could work better. Get your creative juices going and express them. You can then be grateful towards yourself for being able to do this, or share it with others and brighten their day too.
