Right now is a stressful and challenging time for many people.  Some are unemployed and facing huge financial pressures.  Others are essential workers exposing themselves to contracting the SARS-CoV 2 virus & may be worried about spreading it to loved ones. Many are home feeling isolated, bored and vulnerable to their demons and addictions.

During these times it is understandable to have a moment of emotional overwhelm. Taking these measures is an adaptive way to cope and an alternative to harmful/avoidant habits like emotional eating, drinking or projecting onto others, which only make things worse in the long run.  If we can manage ourselves in healthy ways, despite the stress, then we role model to others around us how to self-care  & hopefully inspire them to do the same.  Now more than ever we need each other to stay well and focused.  Together and with each others support we can live through this time.  If you are struggling to cope please seek professional assistance.

  1. Relax.  Physically let go of tension or holding in your body but also within the mind. Soften into your reality.  
  2. Allow the experience to flow right through you.  Don’t struggle, fight or try to change it.  In this moment simply accept what is.  Let go of agenda or expectation and focus your energy and effort on being present and surviving this fleeting human experience.  There’s nothing more that you need to do right now. Be with the experience.
  3. Breathe through any peak sensations extending the exhale over time and releasing physical tension as you exhale.  Take at least 4 full, deep and mindful breaths this way. 
  4. Stay still and relaxed and count from 50 to zero focus on the exhale if you need to continue to calm.  If you feel recovered think of 3 things you are grateful for right now.
  5. Decide on an action plan moving forward (maybe you complete some tasks, solve some problems or maybe you decide you’re done for the day and need a life vacation turning to your favourite book or tv series).  Work out what it is that you need and how best to meet that need given your resources and circumstances.