I’ve been using the word “surreal” a lot lately to describe this new reality we are living. In some cases, we’ve had to figuratively throw our normal schedules out the window as we adjust to this new way of life. The exciting part is that we have an opportunity to redesign our lives by adopting daily habits that nourish our mind, body and spirit.
I can remember no other time in my life that even comes close to harboring the levels of fear, uncertainty and lack of clarity that this pandemic has engendered. Emotions are swirling. Fear, uncertainty, doubt, grief and loss abound.
It is only human for us to take some time and feel those negative emotions. However, we must shift out of that frame of mind to actualize our true transformative potential.
While there are several holistic practices that foster growth and transformation, I have selected six that will serve as a springboard for your journey.
This week’s newsletter is inspired from an article I wrote for Thrive Global.
Here is a quote from the article:
“In order to transmute our pain and harness our personal power, we must train ourselves to see this situation through new lenses. Rather than viewing the situation through the lens of hardship, inconvenience, struggle, or challenge, we can rise up and meet the occasion with courage. This is where the true spiritual warriors are born, and you already have everything you need within you to become one. What do I see in this situation? Growth. Opportunities. Gifts. Connection. Hidden gems. Surprises. Adventure. Transformation. Creativity.”
Click here to read the full article.
Here are six daily habits to nourish your mind, body and spirit during the quarantine:
Put yourself together
Especially when the quarantine first started, I’m sure there was the temptation to stay in your pajamas all day. Despite the temptation, make the effort to pull yourself together and get ready for the day. It is different for everyone, so do what best suits you. I know I’m always in a better frame of mind and am positioned to bring my best self forward when I feel good about my how I feel.
Move
Even though the gyms are closed, make a point to incorporate movement throughout each day. Consider going on a walk, riding a bike, participating in yoga, doing jumping jacks or any other physical activity you can do while maintaining social distancing guidelines.
Spend time in nature
Make it a priority to spend time in nature. Doing this will encourage you to meditate and reflect on life and your present moment. Spending time in nature forces us to slow the frenetic pace and constant accessibility that ensues in everyday life, as we slow down and enjoy the beauty and the wonderment that nature has to offer.
Journal
Spend a few moments each day journaling the events of your day, your feelings about life, and record what it is you’re grateful for. Doing so is very therapeutic and can help you reflect on your life – past, present, and future.
Cook healthy meals
Now that you have more time at home, cook healthy meals for you and your loved ones. It is always important to fuel our bodies with nutritious foods, but it is especially important to bolster our immune systems when viruses are particularly threatening. Be sure to include foods in your diet that boost your immune system such as, leafy greens, citrus fruits, broccoli, nuts and seeds.
Set goals
With the additional time you have, use it to your advantage by setting goals. You can get to those home to-do items that have been on your list for longer than you’d like to admit. Organize your home. After those are done, consider enhancing your talents. Learn a new hobby. Read more books. My book, SOAR, is a great place to start! Call family and friends more often.
After you have some goals in mind, break up your goal into weekly and daily tasks and make regular strides toward your goal. You’ll feel tremendously accomplished that you have used your time in productive ways.
In my book SOAR, I discuss the importance of living a holistic lifestyle. Here is one excerpt:
“Holisticism is a multi-faceted endeavor that takes a mind/body/spirit approach to self-care. It’s very much a proactive and preventative way of living and focuses on keeping all aspects of your being in optimal operating condition. Remember, it’s about making mindful decisions about what you consume, which not only includes food, but also encompasses thoughts, people you spend time with and activities.”
What will you choose?
This time we have under quarantine is a pivotal moment for each of us as well as for humanity. We have a choice. We can either choose to stay stuck in the energies of fear, doubt, grief, and uncertainty or we can re-frame this situation as an invitation from the universe to reinvent ourselves.
Choose the path of growth and empowerment!
As always, I’m praying for the health and safety of you and your loved ones.