1. Allow
First and foremost, allow yourself to feel all the feelings. This is not a resource for you to pretend nothing is happening. It is important and pretty crucial that you actually give yourself time and space to experience what feelings/emotions/predominant thoughts that are coming up for you. In my experience, its been quite a rollercoaster. I go from feeling super positive and aligned, to feeling fearful and anxious about the unknown. It’s totally normal. Don’t make yourself wrong for any of it. Just simply allow. Remember, what we resist, persists.
2. Meditate
This is the one practice I believe is a requirement for all humans at this time. It is of course good at any time, but during this time of intense change on a personal & collective level, meditation will help you to find the calm in the storm. If you are new to meditation, even better! Remember, it is a practice. But it gives you the tools (as you practice over time) to connect with the part of yourself that is always calm. The part that we all have in us that is untouched by any life event or external circumstance. To get to this place requires practice and allowing (see #1) what is and removing judgment. As you allow, as you breathe and as you give yourself time to connect to the deepest part of yourself, you will have access to a peace that is unshakeable. (Click here to join our virtual meditation every day M-F at 8am)
3. Movement
Moving your body is crucial to your mental wellness and fortitude. However you like to move your body, do it. Dance, Qigong (join Michael for weekly Qigong class online), Tai Chi, Yoga (The Spring &The Happy Yogi) Running, Biking, Hiking, Kettlebells (we love 39 minute workout) etc. Just move, get your heart rate up and enjoy. Movement will get you into the present moment and allow your body to detox and get rid of old stagnant energy that quarantine may induce.
4. Connect
Connect to others: Lets physically distance while maintaining or increasing our social & heart felt connections. I have found myself actually connecting more with loved ones than I would have during “normal” life. Take advantage of this time to call someone you haven’t talked to in a while. Since we are all going through a very similar experience we are already more connected and its a perfect ice breaker. Check on people throughout your week and let them know how you are doing too. This will all allow us to feel connected and bring us through this time with even stronger bonds.
Connect to the Earth: The other connection to make a priority is your connection to the Earth. Grounding is a wonderful practice to help you feel centered, calm & supported. Simply put your feet on the ground, ideally outside in the grass with bare feet. Focus your attention in your feet and feel the grouding energy from the Earth. This is a great practice to do especially if you are feeling anxious or scattered.
5. Nourish
Nourish your body with good food- organic and locally sourced food that is high in nutrition. If you are in the Olney area, check out Common Root Farm or Bella Vita Farm. Also, best to eat more cooked foods, soups & stews to help maximize absorption and be gentle on the digestive system.
Nourish your mind with uplifting or inspiration material. Connect to spiritual teachers. Here are some of our recommendations for this time: A Course in Miracles, Loving What Is by Byron Katie, The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle, Open Mind, Open Heart by Thomas Keating, I Am Word by Paul Selig—to name a few.
Limit your consumption of the news & social media which mostly focuses on negativity. Remember, what you feed your mind is just as important as what you feed your body. Feed yourself with things that will help you feel better & more at peace. Be the one to shine the light.
By Trish Twiford Perfetto, Acupuncturist, Herbalist & Holistic Wellness Teacher
Click here for our virtual offerings to help you through this challenging time.