491: The value of connection during unsettling times
This week we’re talking about the value of connection during these unsettling times. How coronavirus is triggering anxiety about loved ones, and how to support yourself in making the most of each day with anxiety calming practices and opportunities for reflection.
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Points covered in this week’s episode:
How coronavirus changed our plans
Shann’s cancelled trip to the UK
our long-distance relationship and how we support and care for each other through our weekly conversations.
How creativity can help us calm anxiety
Ayurveda - India’s ancient science of life - teaches that turning to creativity and walks in nature during challenging times can help us calm anxiety and stay grounded.
When we bring mindfulness to our creative activities we keep our mind occupied in the present moment, and the present moment is our only place of power.
Fretting over the future and feeling swamped by “what if” thoughts and fear for our loved ones is natural during this global health crisis. To keep anxiety in check we need to ask ourselves daily: “am I doing the best I can for myself today?”
We can’t change what’s going on outside. We can’t change how others are handling this crisis, all we can change is how we are responding.
Making good choices in the moment in self-care and nutrition will support us in weathering this storm while doing the best we can to protect our immune system and wellbeing.
Anxiety and feeling and isolated due to coronavirus lockdown
The power hearing each other and being present in conversations, even though we can’t be together physically.
The importance of checking in on our feelings
It’s important to ask ourselves daily “How am I doing today?”
Noting our anger, fear or frustration helps us honour our feelings and then choose how we will respond. Instead of stuffing our feelings down or going to distraction through scrolling on social media, it’s helpful to pause and check in.
Ask yourself: “How do I feel and what do I need?”
Your response might include:
Asking for support. That support might be a talk with a friend, or professional counselling or anxiety support coaching.
Taking a walk. Being mindful in nature, counting your steps, noting the sound of your feet on the earth, listening out for birds, or noting the colours of leaves and flowers all help enter the present moment and calm anxiety.
Cooking a healthy meal There’s time in isolation to slow down and practice cooking with awareness, focus on healing herbs and spices and cook with gratitude.
Reading Maybe you have books you’ve been wanting to read, but didn’t have the time. Choose titles that engage your mind and bring inspiration or education. Give your mind something else to chew on then anxiety.
In difficult times, we get to appreciate the kindness of others
Appreciating acts of kindness helps us see the good in others and the unity that is often present during a large-scale crisis.
Gratitude is a powerful antidote to anxiety.
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