These are exceptionally trying times.
A pandemic.
The California wildfires.
Election chicanery.
Police brutality.
Unchecked misogyny.
The pervasiveness of racism.
It's more than enough to disrupt your mind as it disrupts your life. It's just too much.
Through my struggles with coping with the challenges of this past year (and from the past), I have had to reset my perspective, re-focus my thoughts, and re-ignite my hope.
The reasons contributing to low energy states and psychological unease are plenty: stress, lack of social contact, reduced physical activity, boredom, disrupted routines, among other factors. One or a combination may lead to changes in weight, inability to optimally function, loss of passion, lack of interest in sex, mood swings, and disrupted sleep. It can be overwhelming, but there is hope:
I have read, meditated, prayed, discussed, and researched how to maintain mental health during times of abject stress and tension. My findings are presented here for you. Take what resonates with you; discard what doesn't. Most importantly, do something to help you to begin the process of healing, though the struggles continue.
1) Take stock: acknowledge what you are feeling and how you feel;
2) Maintain social connections: whether by telephone or Zoom or Skype. Limit social media as studies have shown that excessive scrolling and engagement on social eli may actually contribute to depressive symptoms;
3) Help others: volunteer to be of service to those in need. It may help shift your perspective;
4) Begin a practice of gratitude: be thankful for what you have and have not helps to lighten the sense of heaviness you may feel;
5) Stay active: physical activity in the form of intentional exercise keeps your brain healthy and your mood light;
6) Try meditation: there is data to suggest that a regular meditation practice may improve self-awareness and self-esteem and lower stress and anxiety;
7) Schedule time for self care: breather, exercise, listen to a podcast, practice mindfulness, etc.
8) Schedule time away from media and reduce or eliminate your intake of any negativity;
9) Invest in restful sleep;
10) Honor your temple by eating nutritious foods; avoid alcohol and excess sugar, and stay hydrated with pure water.
Bonus:
11) Get the help you need: if you remain overwhelmed and your symptoms are not improving, seek professional help.
May we all seek and attain enlightenment.