3 Quick Practices When You’re Feeling Helpless

We are facing a tremendously unprecedented and scary time due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in our communities. It seems every hour there’s a new update, something new to be concerned about, and it’s so easy to feel overwhelmed and helpless. Three practices I am finding helpful to get through this crisis and stay out of fear are easily remembered by the acronym ACT:

Appreciate

Appreciate all the ways this crisis is bringing out the best in people. Seek out uplifting stories about people helping each other and coming together in community. My heart has been warmed by a video of people in Spain applauding and cheering medical workers from their balconies, and stories of people who thought their jobs had little meaning and now realize with pride how much their work supports and benefits their communities. Appreciate nature. Go outside, breathe deeply, look and listen for all the wonder that surrounds you. Treasure your loved ones, and your pets, and show them you care.

Connect

Look for ways you can be of service to others. Call loved ones and have deep conversations. Check in with neighbors to see how they’re doing. Find ways to show others they are not alone. If you’re on social media, offer encouraging words to friends and strangers alike. Serve in whatever ways you can.

Tune In

Above all, take time to tune in to your inner wisdom, now more than ever. Be still and focus on your breathing, not trying to change it, just giving it your full attention. Close your eyes, put your hands over your heart and imagine you are breathing in and out through your heart rather than your mouth and nose.

Please know you’re not alone. You are stronger than you know. You’ve faced adversity before and you overcame it. You can do it again. You are resourceful and resilient and you’ve got this. What strategies are you using to help you get through this time that would be helpful for others to know? Please let me know in the comments.

With much love,

Trina