Hey Glow Gang,
I hope you are well and all keeping safe. It’s been quite a tumultuous few weeks and I believe we’re all feeling the weight of the COVID-19 Pandemic and its impact. I have been feeling quite low and uninspired lately. In the midst of all this chaos, I do believe that it’s important to practice mental, physical and emotional self-care. I have been trying to figure out ways with which I can hold space for myself during this time and to eventually feel like myself again.
Meditation & Breathing Exercises
Meditation is a practice that I have been doing on and off for the past few years. I would love to make it a part of my daily routine. Every time I meditate I feel centered, present and in tune with my consciousness. It definitely brings a sense of clarity to my mind. You can start off by meditating for a few minutes and then build up from there, don’t pressure yourself 🙂
Our breath is the first thing we do when we are born and the last thing we do right before we pass. I believe breathing exercises bring a sense of calm and help us remain present.
Journalling
Writing down my thoughts enables me to see clearly what I have been thinking, and also serves as a form of emotional release. Journalling is great for when you feel overwhelmed and need to unload and/or unpack your thoughts. It’s something that I have been struggling to do lately, but I am trying to ease myself back into it.
Forms of Pleasure
I believe we exist to enjoy life fully. Some seasons may be challenging and others filled with bliss, regardless, I think pleasure has an important part to play in our lives. We deserve to feel good! I define pleasure as anything that positively stimulates our physical, mental and emotional state. Personally, I like to give myself a massage with my favorite oils or body butter, drinking a hot cup of herbal tea and doing some aromatherapy. All these things make me feel good and stay present, eventually lifting my mood.
Creative Expression
Creativity is nothing but a mind set free. ~ Torrie Asai
Creative pursuits and hobbies are great during this period, as we face a heavy reality. Every time I am in a creative state I feel a sense of mental freedom and calm. I have been coloring and listening to my favorite playlists. Dance, paint or sing…anything that’s artistic will contribute to your mental wellbeing.
Consuming Constructive Content
The online space has been a blessing in enabling us to connect as we social distance and keep up to date with important updates. However, it’s also been a breeding ground for alarmist content. I have been battling severe anxiety at the moment, especially after consuming tons of updates and online commentary on the pandemic. After a few anxiety attacks, I realized that I need to audit and alter the content I have been consuming. The more I started listening to and watching uplifting and reassuring content and reducing my exposure to alarmist material, the better I felt mentally.
I do hope that these tips will help you manage the current situation better and spark a bit of hope. That is truly my intention for us all!
Resources
Meditation and Breath Work:
Positive Content:
- Joanne Muturi – The Purpose Cultivator (Life and Business Coach)
- Dr.Vundi – The Wellness Doctor (Medial Doctor & Psychiatry Resident)
- Siobhan Sudberry – The BeFree Project
- On Purpose Podcast by Jay Shetty
Mapenzi Tele,
Maya.