This year... Easter is not like years past.
Here in Minnesota, we are "Safe at Home" and battling Coronavirus.
Regardless of how you plan to spend it, Easter is a time to remember the beauty that comes from sacrifice. But getting through these time can be hard and it's not often easy to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Here is how you can keep your focus and train your mind to get through tough times.
Each day when I get up, I simply ask myself two questions:
- What can I control today?
- What is beyond my control?
Once I go through that thought process, I make a decision to focus on what I can control, and not dwell on things beyond my control.
Here are some examples:
- I can control if I stay safe and keep my family safe.
- I can control how I eat and exercise.
- I can control my attitude and how I will interact with others .
- I can control how many people I communicate with and the message I deliver.
- I can control my gratitude for the many blessings in my life and how I show that gratitude.
When stress or anxiety is running high, try meditation.
There are lots of online resources about mindfulness, meditation, breathing exercises
and more. Some organizations, including yoga studios, offer free classes online as well.Grounding exercises can help you notice the sights, sounds, smells and sensations around you rather than being absorbed in your thoughts.
Meditation
• There are many types of meditation, but in general, they involve finding a quiet,comfortable place where you can observe your thoughts and focus on your breath. Meditation can help you feel calmer and more relaxed.
• According to the National Institutes of Health, “Some research suggests that practicing meditation may reduce blood pressure, symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression, and insomnia.”
• Meditation apps:
o Headspace (free and subscription content)o Calm (free and subscription)
o Simple Habit (subscription)
o Intimind (Spanish language, free and subscription)
o Liberate (free content created by and for people in the Black and African diaspora)
• Breathing exercises can help calm your body and your mind. These exercises often involve controlling and slowing your breath. They may be especially helpful in managing feelings of anxiety and panic.
o Diaphragmatic breathing exercise
o Box Breathing
Would love to hear how you are getting through!
Be safe, be well.
Happy Easter!
