To say this is a transitional time for us in the age of CO-VID-19 is an understatement. Instead of focusing on what we cannot do, lets take a look at some of the things that can positively affect our wellbeing:
1. Try a live stream exercise class: The yoga studio where I go to unwind and center myself is closed but we can tune into their You Tube channel for a 10am class each day. It has become part of my new routine. You Tube is full of classes to follow that fit your level of fitness and personality. Looking for something different? Try some Tai Chi Qigong. This is a beautiful rendering of the ’18 movements’ that I taught at the Madison Senior Center. A group gathers weekly at the Center (although not now) to practice together with this video.
2. Go outside: There are many newly minted “teleworkers” in our homes. What to do with the time saved commuting and getting ready to go to work? How about making it a daily habit to get out in the fresh air and go for a hike. A brisk walk around town, in the woods, or on a city sidewalk clears the mind and gets sluggish circulation moving. I see families walking together during a time of day they would normally be busy with other things.
3. Be creative with screen time: Join a group that is interactive. Take a virtual writing class, a tour of a museum or, as a friend of mine has been doing for a long time, share a virtual movie date with a friend. Video conferencing with Zoom or Skype is good not only for business meetings but for personal gatherings as well.
4. Clean your closet: As many know from Marie Condo’s bestselling advice, it is good for the psyche to clear the clutter and organize our homes. What better time than now?
5. Connect in new ways: Perhaps instead of texting we can actually call someone and enjoy the increasingly foreign nuance of voice-to-voice communication. Or how about putting pen to paper and sending a good old fashioned note or letter? Consider a family game night.
6. Try a new recipe: Whip up a tasty meal for your household. Have a cup of tea. Read a book. And if you are binge watching, well, maybe you can cut the time in half (chuckle). If not, well, so be it! Perhaps it is just what you need.
How are you using this time to forge new ways in how you spend your day?
Linda says
Amen to your suggestions! I especially like your opening remark..”Instead of focusing on what we cannot do, let’s take a look at some of the things that can positively affect our well being.” As we know, it’s always about Perspective, Perspective, Perspective!
Renee Baldo says
Thank you Maureen 🙏🏻 Learning different ways of communicating and tapping into fitness is educational for all of us.
Marc Yankus says
Love your suggestions thank you Maureen!