Coronavirus Update

It’s taken me some time be able to sit down and write amid the crisis named COVID-19. Damn, it seems like it was just the New Year and we were all so excited about the goals we were going to crush. When the lock down was initiated, the pettiest of thoughts entered my mind knowing I was due for a gel manicure and now nail salons are going to be closed for a month?! When non-essential businesses closed their doors indefinitely, people started hoarding toilet paper, and you could get from LAX to the San Fernando Valley in under 15 minutes, I think people started to pay attention. We have seen cities experience devastation from natural disasters, or a country undergo a major economic recession but never in my lifetime has there been a global pandemic. The grim reality of how COVID-19 has went from the first United States case on February 26th to an earth shattering virus in exactly one month is a wild wake up call to the seriousness of this issue.

You would think social distancing would be a dream come true for an introvert like myself but the restrictions are definitely starting to take a toll and I’ve had to get created to keep myself from completely surrendering to my anxiety. With gyms and studios closed, I’ve found some pretty awesome alternatives outside. I’ve also carved out more time to meditate and give my brain a moment to turn off. I like doing a mid day meditation session when the news gets too heavy and prior to bed since I’ve had many more restless nights than usual. I’ve invested in supplements such as ashwagandha, lemon balm, and magnesium to help me during these stressful times and have scheduled FaceTime calls with family and friends to stay connected.
 
This eeriness is our new normal, and we are unsure for how long. Are restrictions going to be tightened and martial law enforced? Will a cure be developed and we can start boosting our economy back up? My advice is to use this time to tackle something that has been on the “some day” list or “if I only had more time”. This is the best opportunity to invest back into yourself. Although you may be limited with certain “shelter in place” orders and majority of stores closed, but you can let the creative side soar and lay a groundwork for whatever you hope to come to fruition once all this passes. As much as drinking & indulging in comfort foods might temporarily feel good during this extended vacation, think long term and trade those evenings in for some self-reflection, calming tea, and that book that’s been sitting on the shelf waiting to get read. The spread of this virus, the unemployment rates, and financial security are all uncertain and out of our control but we have absolute control on where we let our mind go during this time. Stay safe!