“Current Situation”

• Overwhelmed as you juggle multiple responsibilities and are always playing catch-up. (work, home, or life, in general)
• Trying to keep up with constant changes (Hello, school reopen plans!  Mask or no mask debates, economic ups and downs)
• Feel like you’re bombarded by news and information (epi reports, politics, and everyone’s opinion on social media)
• Pulled in many directions (kids, pets, aging parents, spouse, boss, co-workers)

It’s nearly impossible to stay grounded unless you train your body and mind to stay calm under pressure.

Try these daily habits to keep you centered and peaceful.

Habits to Keep Your Mind and Spirit Grounded:

1.    Slow down. Make a conscious decision to stop rushing around. Do less and accomplish more by clarifying your priorities. Focus on one activity at a time, and pause in between tasks.

2.    Breathe deep. Lower your stress levels with simple breathing exercises. Work at breathing from your abdomen instead of your chest, and lengthening your exhalations. Try alternate nostril breathing to activate both sides of your brain by using your thumb to close off one side of your nose at a time.

3.    Practice mindfulness. Daily meditation will help you to live in the present moment. Find a quiet place where you can sit down and let go of distracting thoughts.  And when you think you’re done, sit for one extra minute.  Often that is when the divine wisdom comes through.

4.    Monitor your self-talk. Replace doubts and limiting beliefs with more encouraging messages. Remember your past victories and cheer yourself on.  Celebrate everything!

5.    Soothe yourself. Be gentle with yourself when you’re having a tough day. Listen to soft music or take a warm bath.

6.    Engage in meaningful activities. Understand your strengths and spend time doing things that create a sense of flow. You may find fulfillment in your job or hobbies.  Choose something that you can get lost in.

7.    Connect with others. Surround yourself with loving and supportive family members and friends. Create opportunities to share laughter and deep conversation.  Whether it’s a Zoom call or a social distance gathering, connect, connect, connect!

8.    Express gratitude. Count your blessings. Let others know how much they mean to you and look for ways to make them smile.

9.    Strengthen your faith. Contemplate your purpose and beliefs. Find a community where you feel accepted and inspired, whether it’s your church or a secular discussion group.  You may not be able to attend in person right now, but there are tons of stuff available online.

10. Think positive. Look on the bright side. An upbeat attitude will increase your resilience.  Remember that our “current situation” is just that.  It’s current, right now, and only temporary.

Habits to Keep Your Body Grounded:

1.    Adjust your posture. The way you hold your body can help you feel balanced and give you more strength and energy. Stand up straight and tall with your shoulders held back.

2.    Exercise daily. Working out keeps your body and mind in top condition. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity at least 3 days a week. You might want to work out with an online video, take a walk in your neighborhood or go for a run in the park before the workday begins.

3.    Eat a balanced diet. Make natural whole foods the mainstay of your diet, including at least 5 servings of vegetable and fruits each day. Choose lean proteins and healthy fats. Cut back on excess sugar and salt.  Treat yourself weekly, though.  It’s easier to sustain healthy habits in the long run when we plan for and enjoy something we love.

4.    Rest and sleep. Give your body time to heal and restore. While individual sleep requirements vary, 7 to 8 hours is sufficient for most adults. Pay attention to the quality of your sleep too. Darken your bedroom and block out background noise.  Don’t forget to shut down your computer and stay off your phone at least one hour before bed.

5.    Limit irritants. Ironically, some of the things we do to manage stress can actually backfire. Consume caffeine and alcohol in moderation.  And if specific people are your irritants, it’s okay to limit exposure, as well.

Your daily choices really can help to cultivate more peace and harmony into your life as you navigate these challenging times. Staying grounded will make you happier and more productive.