Page 39 - GS200402
P. 39
Inspiration
Keep your spirits up
uring the COVID-19 crisis, we are confronting • Express gratitude for blessings and lessons
new and sudden challenges. Many people are learned. Make this a ritual as each day comes to a
suffering, some extremely so. Even for those close. If you are living with others, you can do this
D who have sufficient income and assets, as well during dinner or at bedtime.
as good health, the magnitude of what is happening in our
local communities and across the globe is staggering. This • Limit TV watching to specific hours. With today's
puts an extra weight on our shoulders. multitude of streaming options, it's easy to binge
watch show after show, which isn't good for anyone's
In addition to the obvious obstacles and nuisances that health. Also, when you do watch, look for stories that
arise (where's the TP?) it can be more difficult to maintain warm your heart and comedies that delight you.
emotional balance during times of uncertainty. Some
people who are naturally energetic may find themselves • Post uplifting quotes and photos. Find and post
dragging; others might feel a despondence that makes it uplifting quotes, short poems and photos where you
difficult to get important tasks done. will see them around the house. And change them
every couple of days so they'll be fresh and more
Helpful hints likely to grab your attention.
If you're feeling a bit out of sorts, like many are right now, • Participate in community actions. For example,
here are some ideas that can help keep you on an even some neighbors have put teddy bears in their
keel: windows for children to count while on walks with
their parents. Some are stepping outside at a set time
• Move your body often. It's likely you are spending each evening to clap, cheer or howl to appreciate
significant time at a desk these days. Set a timer to workers on the front lines who are risking their lives
remind you to stretch for five minutes every half daily.
hour. It's surprising how invigorating that small
action can be, and what a difference it can make in • Reach out to friends and colleagues. Use video,
your energy level at day's end. Work movement into phone, text, email, social media and other safe
your lunch hour and other breaks, too. means. Some will make you feel more connected
than others. Stick with the ones you enjoy.
• Get outside. You could tend your garden, for
example, or take a stroll, being sure to maintain • Donate in ways that are acceptable. Share your
social distance from neighbors you encounter along expertise in Zoom seminar, for example, or donate
the way. funds to a food bank or other organization working
to mitigate the impacts of this emergency.
• Appreciate what you have. Before you begin your
workday, list everything and everyone in your life Together we can and will get through this stronger than
that you appreciate. State why you appreciate them, ever.
too. Recreate this list anew daily even if many items
are the same. This will set a positive tone for the day.
Kate Gillespie, President and CEO
39
39
