This past week many people have shared with me their pandemic fatigue. I feel it too! For many of us we are in the midst of winter, inside more than usual. We have been in the pandemic for about a year now. Or maybe it is boredom, missing the fun events we once enjoyed in person. While hope of this ending is in sight, the pandemic weighs on us all in different ways. Some experiencing unemployment, while others are feeling the affects of isolation. Giving thought to this point in time, this image sums up a few possible steps for a moment of relief.
Pause – Take a moment to stop the rush between whatever you are doing: work, school, video games, zoom meetings or whatever is your regular routine these days.
Breathe – Set a timer on your phone or microwave for 5 or 10 minutes and simply breathe. 5 minutes could seem short or long. We are breathing all the time but how often do we pause to listen and feel the breath. Not wanting a timer, do a 5-breath meditation. Inhale and exhale five times, keeping count with the finger on your hand. Observe the breath. Slowing the breath rate can bring about calmness, relaxation, and greater mental clarity. The breath affects both the mind and body. You can stimulate the vagus nerve, which is central to the nervous system response – fight-or-flight or rest-and-relax.
Ponder – What is something fun or new you can do on your own or with others? Something different? Coloring, reading a comic, watching comedy, a walk in a new place, cooking up something different, roller skate in your home. If still nothing comes to mind, what is something generous you can do for another? Sending a note, baking a bread?
Choose and Do – Decide on one thing and set a time or day to make it happen. Share with a friend.
Finding relief and peace is different for each of us. All we can do is remind ourselves to breathe and keep seeking solutions. It can feel heavy to keep having a positive mindset, all we can do is keep trying. If it is helpful, know that whatever steps you take to find peace and relief and change for yourself – you are helping to develop your resillency muscle.
May you be healthy, safe and live with ease!