Like everyone else working to pivot during the Coronavirus Pandemic, I have had to make a lot of adjustments to my routine to in the interest of rebalancing my mental and physical well-being that was knocked off-kilter. Writing, for one, had always been a creative release for me that I enjoyed and is part of my livelihood, but with my brain at capacity processing these turn of events while suddenly becoming a homeschool teacher and at least 6 other concurrent roles, it seemed that something had to give. But, as a Wellness Coach, I knew that was ok. So having taken some time to find a groove in this new normal, I’m ready to share a tip or four on how I’ve made some helpful shifts to honor myself and my health as best as possible during these times.
For some context, the pursuit of wellness – the balancing of mind, body and spirit – involves pivoting and practicing different elements of wellness such as nutrition, exercise, positive relationships, spirituality, creativity, and healthy home environment (just to name a few) as changing influences in life and your physical needs arise. And, what’s clear is that we all need wellness now more than ever to keep supporting our mental health and our immunity as best as possible.
As a result, working within the parameters of our new environment, here are a few ways I have shifted my wellness practice to date to reclaim my balance:
Nutrition: I’ve been grateful for the fresh basket of fruits and vegetables I receive each week from our local, organic farms via Fresh Harvest. It ensures that I’m continuing to focus on plant-based, nutrient-dense foods in my diet and not falling into the trap of the processed foods that we stashed in the pantry just in case things really went south. I’ve also planted a garden in our backyard so we can enjoy that healthy harvest come summer. See if you feel a difference in your own physical and mental health when you ditch the stuff made IN a plant for the stuff made FROM a plant.
Walking & Yoga: Some of the most cherished times during my week are a neighborhood walk and a weekly yoga session (at a minimum) via Zoom. It always helps our situation look a bit more rosy and I find these gentle exercises (vs. the more vigorous cardio that I’d previously rotate in a couple times a week) more doable within the stress levels we’re experiencing at this time.
Human Connectivity: In our house we try to connect with our family on video chat at least weekly. I’ve seen my 5-year-old, only-child really struggle with some loneliness at times during quarantine but simply come alive after a Zoom playdate. It reminds me that hours in front of the television and even her Zoom-based classroom isn’t a fair substitute for interacting with her peers during this time of physical social distancing. Do your best to check in with people you care about – it always feels good to get a social invite these days, even if virtual.
Creativity: Dedicated time to express your creativity in whatever way gives you joy is so important. Deepak Chopra has said, “To get in touch with the core of life, you have to get in touch with the creative power of the universe. That power expresses itself through your personal creativity. When you are in the field of creativity, you lose track of time. Only the flow exists.” For me, I have used this time to learn how to sew and make cloth masks for friends and family. It has the win-win benefit of flexing creative muscle and the soul-filling act of doing something nice for others. You can find the pattern I have been using here.
What’s been a gift in all of this is a reframing of our priorities and a reassessment of our core values. I am grateful for this found-time together with my husband, daughter, and fur-baby in a life that had simply gotten too frenetic for all of us. And, needless to say, I’m simply in awe and full of sincere appreciation for the heroism and commitment of our essential workers. May we all take this time to reprioritize our lives, support each other, and come out of this with a renewed mind, body and spirit.
Be well.
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Danielle is Founder of The Well-Intended® and an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach that specializes in Executive Wellness. As a former Senior Executive in the Marketing and Advertising Industry, she’s passionate about improving employees’ quality of life through improved mental and physical well-being and knows first-hand how great an impact it can have both personally and professionally. If you’d like to learn more about how The Well-Intended can help your organization – be it a webinar, speaking engagement, or one-on-one coaching – please email danielle@thewellintended.com.
Disclaimer: “The Well-Intended”, and its associated blog and social media pages are owned and operated by The Well-Intended LLC and does not provide medical advice. The Well-Intended’s author is not a physician or licensed medical expert. The content provided shares perspective on a personal wellness journey and healthy lifestyle approach practiced by its owner in order to achieve their own health and happiness. Please consult your physician for advice and/or guidance regarding specific concerns with your own health, vitamins, supplements, fitness plan and/or anything else health- or wellness-related.
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