A Few Questions to Ask Yourself Daily:
Hannah Starcher, B.A.
1. AM I STAYING ACTIVE AND GETTING FRESH AIR?
In times of crisis, fear and anxiety levels are sure to be heightened. It’s important to clear your head regularly in order to alleviate stress or tension, especially if you’ve been sitting inside all day. One of the best ways to feel more centered is through movement. Do push ups or jumping jacks, or search for an online fitness video. If you don’t have enough space, take a walk around the block. For those individuals that are not as mobile, focus your attention on a certain area of the body - like practicing breathing exercises or stretching.
Fresh air is equally important and can really help to clear the mind. Take time to step outside this week. Sit on a porch or stoop, or take a walk through the woods. The nervous systems benefits from sunshine and nature, so getting outside can really help to improve brain function. If you are unable to leave your house, try opening the windows to feel the breeze and hear the sounds outside.
2. HOW AM I LETTING GO OF PREVIOUS EXPECTATIONS?
Life is probably very different for you now than it was two months ago. You may be home from college, out of work, or working from home. Checking your email might have been essential task for you to complete previously. Now that you’re home you may be recognizing that your attention is focused on a variety of other things. If you have kids this can be even more challenging, attempting to juggle homeschooling with other important daily tasks. Let go of your previous standards because life will continue to change on you, especially now. Learn to adapt, and figure out what is really important to you as the weeks progress. Focus on what your new ideas of normalcy will be and don’t be afraid to let go of the old ones. It will all be OK.
3. WHAT AM I THANKFUL FOR TODAY?
It may feel especially challenging to ask yourself this question, but what are you appreciative of today? We’ve all had bad days, and they may begin to feel more frequent, but remembering that there is something good in every one may help you to over come them. Many incarcerated individuals have said that being grateful for a least one thing every day has helped them to remain positive in jail. As you sit at home, know that positive thoughts have the ability to lead into feelings of happiness and contentment. Every day attempt to write down one thing that you are thankful for. There are no downsides to practicing gratitude. Allow yourself to live in the moment and try not to worry about the past or future.
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
