IDEAS For THRIVING Through These Times

For so many families or single people, this is a time of hardship.  People are either staying home and losing wages or working reduced hours.  It is estimated that 73% of the United States is impacted financially by the social distancing that is necessary at this time.  While there is help on the way, it is not here yet.  Now is the time to help neighbors in need and remember anyone who might be less fortunate. If you have extra, whether that is food, toilet paper, talent or time, give where you are able.

​One of my best friends is going through chemo during this horrible time.  While she is having her own battle with fatigue and other symptoms, she has taken the time to think of others and has begun making masks. These will be shared workers in the medical field, family members and other cancer patients. 

Our food pantries and churches continue to play a pivotal role in the community. If you have some food to spare, drop it off where it can do some good.  Our local food pantry will allow for people to drop off and they will come out and pick it up after you leave.  It is a good idea to call ahead and see the best time to take deliveries.  When they are serving or preparing meals, sometimes they have difficulty sending someone out.  

Have your family adopt someone who does not have family in the area - whether they are in a nursing home, hospital or a person who is normally shut in without the Coronavirus.  Contacting one of these can afford your family the opportunity to send cards, drawings or other kindnesses to someone who has no one at this time when we are separated from everyone.  

KEEPING THE KIDS MOVING:
Give the kids something to do which will help them get out the wiggles.  

https://www.thelittlegym.com

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=little+gym+at+home

THERE ARE THINGS YOU CAN DO TO TAKE SOME CONTROL OVER YOUR ENVIRONMENT
Making A Schedule:
~Some people have set hours that they have to work due to customer service hours or job requirements.  Others are more fluid.  Having a set schedule with breaks and a lunch time away from your “work area” will help your brain and body recharge each day.  

Organizing Something That Will Make You Smile:
~If you have something that has been in need of organization, take time to do it.  If you have difficulty staying with a project, start small.  Take a portion of the project and do that.  Or give yourself 30 minutes, work on it, then stop and go back later for another 30 minute session.  

There are many suggestions on Pinterest on how to organize everything.  My suggestion is that you set a timer for being on Pinterest.  It is a black hole that can suck your time away from you.  

~Take a 10-minute break to do some light breathing exercises. Purposeful, mindful breathing has been shown to be an effective tool against anxiety.

~Consider limiting your coronavirus news consumption. It’s important to stay informed, but updating feeds constantly for news on COVID-19 isn’t productive. Instead, check the CDC website for updates periodically and try to spend most of your day focused on other things.  Find things that make you smile.

~Talk to your friends and family. It’s important in this situation of increased social isolation, that you stay in touch with people. Reach out to a friend by phone — or better yet — a video chat.

These are all things that can be helpful in maintaining a healthier you during this time.