APRIL 2020 NEWSLETTER
Your Health in the Time of Corona
Hello Friends! And welcome to the April 2020 Newsletter. In the last month, we’ve found ourselves living in a different world because of the coronavirus. Life has changed for all of us due to stay at home protocols and social distancing, and in this newsletter, we will be focusing on methods for LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE INWARD AND INSIDE.
Moderate Your Intake Of Daily News
There’s a fine line between staying informed and feeding your fear and anxiety. Be conscientious of how you feel as you’re reading or listening to the news, and notice its impact on your mood. If necessary, set boundaries for when and how long you engage in it. Another option would be to find good news sources online to help shift your mood to a more positive one.
How To Clear Your Mind Of All Thoughts and Focus On Your Breath
Stress and anxiety are at an all-time high for a lot of people, and it can take a toll on our physical, emotional, and mental health. Breathing exercises are a great way to keep the body clear from any negative blocks, allowing your mind to clear itself of all thoughts so that our energy can return to a state of harmony and peace. It might be hard for some people to clear their mind of all thoughts, so we’re going to give you some pointers to help out:
1.Don’t sit in a noisy room. Distractions and loud noises will make it harder for you if you’re a beginner
2.Sit in a comfortable position such as: sitting in a chair in an upright position, sitting in a cross-legged position, or lying down flat on the ground/bed.
3.Close your eyes, keeping your palms open and face up
4.If it helps, have a soothing playlist to help you relax
5.Use guided imagery to help you focus on your breath - my favorite is to imagine yourself on a beach, feeling the warmth of the sun on your face, the sand in your feet, the sound of the waves crashing. Smile with your eyes closed as you feel your breath slow down
6.Start with this meditation/breathing practice for just 2 minutes at a time, either in the morning/night or after you finished working (probably most effective in the morning when your mind isn’t cluttered yet). Then gradually increase the minutes until you’ve mastered being able to focus on your breath and stay calm no matter where you are!
Movement Is The Best Medicine For Your Mental Health
Some people might feel a little more down with the quarantine limiting their ability to go outdoors and socialize, so find a way to exercise indoors. Nourishing your body with movement can help you feel more grounded and centered. Whether it’s an instagram live, zoom class, youtube video or just dancing to your favorite playlist, keeping your body active will increase work productivity and build stronger and happier relationships in your lives.
Cultivate The Habit Of Mindful Eating
Which is what, exactly?
1.Don’t rush to eat - savor each bite and really chew your food completely before swallowing.
2.Pay attention to when your stomach feels full or you burp - signs that your body telling you it is full.
3.Make your plate colorful - focusing on healthy fruits and vegetables, protein and healthy carbs.
4.Drink a glass of water before each meal - sometimes we feel hungry because our body is dehydrated. And this can also prevent us from overeating as well.
Do Something Nice For Someone In Your Community
Being at home, we forget that we are still a part of a large community that still needs us to be there for them, whether it’s your neighbors, essential workers or a local small business that you love. Find a way to show your support for one another:
1.Buy a gift card for your favorite small business to use later on
2.Order delivery from your favorite restaurant
3.Say thank you to the essential workers in your community - get involved with virtual clap sessions every Friday night at 7pm, or personally send them a thank you message.
4.Check on your elderly neighbors - even if you don’t know them, call the closest nursing home or assisted living community and ask if they need anything delivered.
Final Words
We are all in this together. Like you, I am growing and learning to adapt my life at home. Make the most of the time you have now so that when normal life resumes, you come out the other end as someone you can be truly proud of! Stay home, stay safe, but don’t lose your positivity. From my heart to yours!