What is control? What in this world do we really have control over?
So many familiarities - our habits, routines, workplaces, daily human interactions - have been abruptly halted. Our usually scheduled programming has been disrupted.
This massive, dramatic, and sudden shift that we are currently experiencing has shown us, if anything, that there are things that can happen to us and around us that always aren’t in our immediate control.
Feeling out of control can lead to feelings of anxiety and fear. It’s important, now more than ever to anchor ourselves. Because while there are things that can happen to us that are ‘beyond our control,’ we must also acknowledge that the control we do have lies in our actions, reactions, and perception.
Right now is a powerful opportunity to reimagine our habits, routines, daily human interactions in new ways!
Here are some tips to help you find your center:
Realize what's important right now - What is most important to you right now?
Lately, my priorities have been: myself, my connections with my friends and family, maintaining good health through my diet, and staying physically active.
Focus your energies on what you can control - What are 3 actions I can take for myself right now to regain a sense of stability?
The only thing we truly have direct control over is ourselves. Where we choose to direct our energy, how we choose to respond to situations, what we choose to eat - these are all things that lie in our immediate control. I have found that it is so much easier to give your full, authentic self to others once you have taken care of yourself.
Give yourself a break - How can I practice mindfulness today?
Meditation, Yoga, journaling, or exercise - I find these things incredibly helpful. For those looking for a place to begin, Headspace is a great guided meditation app. It is currently free to all New Yorkers.
Here is a wonderful 10-minute loving-kindness meditation from my friend Jenny Campbell at Urban Om Yoga that I hope you also enjoy.
If you are able to exercise or walk outside at least once a day please do this as self-care. Regular walks can help improve your nervous system and keep you fitter and are also beneficial in reducing tension and depression. Don't forget to wear your mask and make sure to maintain social distancing norms!
Take small, imperfect action - What is 1 thing I have been procrastinating? What is 1 small step I can take today to tackle it?
When faced with a large, seemingly daunting, or never-ending task, it is important to keep in mind that “a brick wall is built brick by brick.’
That is to say, large accomplishments are a result of much-accumulated action taken over a period of time and remember that the key to success is found in your daily routine.
Whether it’s unsubscribing from all the emails you no longer wish to receive, entirely organizing your pantry, or redecorating the whole living room, start small. For the above examples, you could: Remove yourself from all promotional emails for the day, throw out expired goods, or create a Pinterest board to begin your re-decorating journey!
Breathe! - How aware am I of my breath?
Did you know that breathing more deeply can lower your blood pressure? Taking deeper, more intentional breaths slows and regulates the heart rate, while also increasing the oxygen flow in your bloodstream. The more often you practice deep breathing, the healthier your blood flow!
If you are unfamiliar with breathwork, start by bringing awareness to your breath this week. Notice where you tend to breathe normally - is it at the tip of your nose? In your chest? Or down in your stomach? Breathwork is an incredibly powerful that so many of us rarely tap into because we thing that breathing just comes naturally. Here’s a quick introduction video to get you started. I encourage you to give it a try and see how relaxed you feel afterward :)
Until the next time, take good care of yourself!
Sue xo