Give Yourself A Break
Give Yourself A Break: Self-Care During A Difficult Time
Stress and anxiety are in the air. It’s the 3 P’s: Pandemic, Politics, and Parenting. Ugh! How do we manage staying healthy, dealing with political conflict with family and friends on social media, and juggling the virtual classroom with changing schedules and policies? It’s really just enough already!!
So, let’s talk about self-care and being emotionally healthy in the long run.
I often like to think about the safety instructions that airline stewards give prior to take off. They tell us parents and care-givers to “put the oxygen mask on yourself and then put it on your child”. Why would they say that? Isn’t that selfish? I care about my children, so wouldn’t I give myself to keep them safe?
The answer is that we can’t adequately care for others without caring for ourselves. We have to have our own energy to respond in a way to help those around us. Here are some ideas that might be a beginning conversation with yourself:
Breathe. Yes, I know we do that all the time! Ha! But really taking some time to open a window and get some oxygen and some deep breathing. I find when I am working with clients and they take a deep breath it often leads to a yawn and that is a reflection of a response to relaxation. So, open a window or walk outside if you are in a less congested location and fill those lungs.
Exercise. It’s a natural stress releaser. Go for a walk or run around the block. Find an on-line exercise program if you aren’t able to go to a gym.
Yoga. Yoga can help with breathing and stretching that opens up ways to relax. Look for a yoga practice that fits your needs. There are great instructors out there either in person or on-line.
Laughter. Watch something that you enjoy and encourages you to laugh. Laughing releases endorphins that encourage a sense of well-being. Old movies or comedies can be a fun escape.
Reading. Find a good book. This can be a paper or audio version of a best seller or it can be a favorite that you read in the past and want to revisit. Reading before bed can encourage you to rest well and is a good excuse to turn off all the screens.
Friends. This is probably the most important of all. This might include family or friends that are far away. I know of many families who are having regular virtual get togethers and seeing each other frequently. These virtual meet ups might not have happened without the pandemic and my hope is that it will continue far beyond this time. Being with others in-person or virtual gives us support and grounding.
Professional support. If you find that you need additional support in your journey, either for basic self-care or other issues that arise, there are professionals ready to help. Reach out. Ask for help. As I tell folks, “That’s what we are here for.”
So give yourself a break and watch for blessings along the way.
We are always available on our phone number 828.669.9798 or by visiting our website www.blackmountaincounseling.org.
