The world as we know it seems to have ground to a halt in just a week. Jobs furloughed, services disrupted, and orders were given to keep social distance or shelter in place. It is all overwhelming.
It is hard to grasp how a disease can be so pervasive in the twenty-first century. Yet, we find ourselves in a situation that none of us have ever had to endure in a lifetime. What are we to do and how are we to handle the stresses of life as we sit idly waiting for whatever it to happen, happen?
It can be all so overwhelming on many different levels. There are health risks, financial obligations, the feeling of being trapped within our own homes. Is there going to be enough food to eat? Once the mind gets racing it can conjure up all sorts of irrational and extreme fears.
So how do we keep all this in check?
First in foremost whatever you are feeling is real to you. This simple acknowledgment is a pivotal step in moving forward. It does not matter how crazy the thoughts get before you can change your perspective you have to be aware of that perspective. A simple pen and paper can help you achieve this.
Once we can transcribe these thoughts to pen and paper we can then access and address these fears. There may be some that you can release based on a simple rationality; however, there will be some that seem overwhelming. How are we able to deal with these?
I have used three different methods in the past when I find myself in a state of mental paralysis. The first and foremost helpful is to reach out to talk with someone. It can be a family member, friend, or clergy. By communicating what we are going through we remove the sense of isolation.
There have been times in my life when fears and anxiety have consumed me. It was by talking with someone that I was able to regain a sense of perspective and assuage irrationalities. These times have taught me the importance of having another person help me sort through the mental quandary that I created.
Meditation is another method that I have used to clear myself of the mental quagmire. Meditation is all-encompassing for me. It can be a guided meditation, breathing exercises, or simply prayer work. All produce the same effect in the end.
If I am stressed I can sit in a comfortable position with my eyes closed and breathe in for a count of five, hold for a count of five, breathe out for a count of five. I repeat this process for two to five minutes. There will be thoughts that come to your mind simply acknowledge them and release them. Follow your breath in and out. After you complete this practice you will find your mind has rest to a more calm state.
The last practice that has proven to change the way I am thinking and what I am feeling is physical activity. I discovered this many years ago while in college. One of my senior semesters I had a physics exam the next day. I had been studying nonstop and worked myself into a frenzy; stressed and anxious. Out of the blue, I decided to go for a run. This one act on this single day has had a profound effect on my life. Without knowing it I discovered that physical activity acts as a reset button for my mental state. If I can elevate my heart rate for a short period the chemicals in my brain take over and clear out the stress and anxiety. I continue to use this method today.
If you find yourself in your own emotional quandary and stymied by fear perhaps you can try one or more of these methods. It is important to remember that you are not in this alone. We all go through situations and process events differently. The most important aspect is that you do not have to do it alone. If you find yourself isolated and are not comfortable talking in your immediate group of peers drop us an email (theofwe@gmail.com). We would be more than happy to listen.
Wishing you all love and peace.
