Take Back Control

The COVID-19 global pandemic has left many of us feeling like things are out of control. We are worried about our loved ones and our health. We feel unsettled by our routines being disrupted. We may be on edge being cooped up in close quarters with family. And COVID-19 is just the latest of a string of potential global catastrophes: SARS, anthrax, North Korea, 911, climate change, the list goes on and on.

When we feel like things are out of control, we tend to react in different ways. Some of us spiral into depression. Others try to stay busy and productive. And many of us feel like we’re in a haze and end up binging hours of Netflix on end.

So, how can we maintain some control over a situation that feels the opposite?

It starts with ourselves. Let’s take stock of the things we can control right now:

 - Our ability to be part of the solution (staying home helps everyone!)

- Our attitude. It’s not easy, but reminding each other of the positive things in our life helps a lot right now. Remember, we’re all in this together, so positivity goes a long way towards getting through each day.

- Our connections with loved ones. We can still be supportive, connected, and there for the people who matter to us, even if we can’t see them in person.

- Our own health. We can maintain an active, healthy lifestyle. Getting outside for a hike or even a walk around the block is uplifting. And there are lots of free online exercise classes available right now. Check out these resources: Fitness Blender  Core Power Yoga and Barry’s on IGTV.

And don’t forget how important sleep is to your health. And if you have trouble sleeping, I recommend a microdose edible like 1906 Midnight -- that can do wonders for getting a full 8 hours.

- Our sense of productivity. It’s hard to feel great when we are in pajamas every day (well, maybe it’s good for a day or two, but after that, it gets old). Get yourself out of bed at a normal time, take a shower, hydrate your hair and take care of your skin. You don’t need to go overboard, but maintaining a balanced daily routine really helps us feel like we got this.

There are great TED talks about overcoming fear, regaining control, and moving forward. Check out Daniel Midson-Short’s talk about someone else holding the remote control. Feels familiar?

Sometimes, just taking a moment to breathe and decompress can do wonders. Try a meditation app like Ten Percent Happier (makes it easy for anyone to engage -- with no experience meditating or lots!). 

Caroline Fabrigas of Scent Marketing Inc. recommends aromatherapy in calming scents like lavender, rose or ylang-ylang (scent can do wonders for destressing us). And identifying what triggers us can help too.  Does watching Trump everyday make you break out in hives? (you might want to cut back on the news!).

Does anyone else have any thoughts on how to take back control? We’d love to hear them.