While 2020 may not be what we envisioned, we can all learn how to grow from these unexpected circumstances. And when this is all over, most of us will never take anything for granted again.
Eventually, we will return to our travels, taking those postponed trips. In the meantime, we can work on so many aspects of our lives.
As for my own personal growth, I am a lot closer to my parents. Regardless of disagreements, I wonder when I will see them in a normal setting again when delivering food and other necessities. Please take this moment to heal and reach out to your loved ones.
Following are some tips to lift your spirit and mindset. I hope you find them useful and please feel free to share with others.
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Table of Contents
A much needed distraction
If you have access to a national park nearby, tie up those shoelaces and get walking. I am grateful that my house backs up to the woods, and I am trying to get 10,000+ steps in a day. Great way to get in shape and recharge with Nature in another way.
If you plan on visiting a park, it should be for solitary recreation, not group activities per the health professionals. If crowds are forming choose a different park, trail, or return another time or day. Maintain a distance of 6 feet from others.
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Go natural
Being surrounded by nature is known to boost moods and ease stress. What if you could emulate that peaceful vibe at home? Buy yourself fresh flowers the next time you are picking up groceries. How about buying a pot of planted perennials for the deck? A perennial will last for years and serve as a reminder of the victory of 2020.
Annuals are great for a quick punch of color; they don’t last long, though. What a great time to take up gardening. Even if it is solely an orchid to adorn your work space.
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Cooking opportunities
I used to love cooking. Then, I never had time. Now that I have plenty of it, I’m trying many different dishes. I’m doing my best to:
- make sure to include fresh, colorful vegetables and fruits,
- buy frozen foods over canned, and
- use spices to reduce stress and inflammation.
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Eating for wellness
Be conscious of emotional eating to better stay in good health. Easier said than done, I know. Bringing out the flatware normally used for holidays is one way to nourish yourself mentally, as are using pretty dishes and creating a nice table setting.
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Tick-tock, tick-tock
Time is the most important commodity we have, and we certainly have a lot more of it now. Too bad we can’t save time for a rainy day. This is the best time to attack your to-do list. What is on your list? Are you organizing drawers? Making home repairs? Cleaning the fridge and pantry? Committing to an exercise routine?
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Watch your news intake
You want to stay informed during this pandemic. At the same time, you want to stay sane and keep your spirits up. Try turning off your phone for a few hours at a time. Watch movies that are uplifting. As they say, laughter is the best medicine. Perhaps some comedy will lift your mood.
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Be human, stay sensitive
Now, more than ever, is the time to exude humanity. This is an unprecedented time. Practice patience. (Easier said than done, I know.) We can all share even though we are far apart. It is so important to have human contact. Keep a social distance but stay spiritually connected ~ Governor Cuomo
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Protect the protectors
Healthcare professionals are begging us to heed these 10 words: “We stay here for you. You stay home for us.” When it is safe to visit a hospital, let’s bring these angels special treats or flowers, or we can send them restaurant gift cards to support our favorite local eats.
Until then, stay home or at least 6 feet from each other.
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Say please and thank you
Please thank the workers who are doing their best to keep life as normal as possible, such as grocery store clerks, truck drivers, mass transit personnel, law enforcement, and other providers of vital services. I’m sure it hasn’t been easy for them. I bet words of appreciation would be greatly welcome.
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What’s old is new again
Time to re-embrace that good old American ingenuity. The world is changed forever, and who knows what the new normal will be. It is up to us to keep the love alive. Perhaps you want to read and share more positive stories as well as to contribute and support local businesses if you can. Our most difficult task may be remaining optimistic.
Use this time for your mind to virtually travel – read about the history, culture or food of the next place you wish to visit – it will make you appreciate your next trip all the more.
I leave you with this quote: “Travel is like a giant blank canvas and the painting on the canvas is only limited by one’s imagination.” ~ Ross Morley
Or… Google Earth is offering virtual tours of some of the world’s most incredible national parks to provide an escape for people during social distancing.
Sending you well wishes.
