We are learning to accept COVID-19 is here to stay and adapting to living in this climate is essential if we are to keep ourselves and our loved ones comfortable and happy. 

In addition to worries about the illness itself and the impact it may have on family members and friends, the current situation globally leaves us with feeling ‘out of control’ . It can be difficult to accept. Even though our perception of ‘control’ might have been a mirage, it is one that has previously given us comfort!

Accepting these changes which have come so fast, so out of our control, so unbelievable, is a process – everyone reacts to change, sometimes with fear, or resistance or anger. Patience is a virtue! Patience with our own emotions, and with other people’s often very different emotions. Try to remember different perspectives and beliefs is culturally healthy rather than a personal affront. Simple mantras (repeating a positive sentence a few times, for example, ‘today I will be calm and kind’ ) trains our brain into good habits. 

In addition to learning to accept what we cannot control and having patience (or we could think of this as kindness), here are a few more ways that we may make this process a little less strenuous!  

Taking regular exercise can help strengthen your immune system and increase the chances of your body fighting off infections and viruses, including COVID-19 and others. It is recommended that we take 30 minutes of exercise for three days a week to keep our immune system strong and efficient. You can try to include walking, biking, yoga, swimming, or other low impact workouts, and you will feel better and have more energy! 

Although we haven’t had much to smile about lately, that doesn’t change the fact that laughter is healing, rejuvenating and fosters positivity, hence the saying “laughter is the best medicine”.  

  • Smile more – we really don’t do this often enough! 
  • Spend quality time with your pets, if you have them. 
  • Do more of the things that you know make you laugh – from conversations with a friend or just watching a comedy. 

Also, remember to put your screen down and take in the here and now as often as you can! There are many benefits to having time away from your screen, such as: improves your sleep, your ability to concentrate, reduces anxiety and helps you focus so that you can spend more time on the things that are important. 

  • Take up a new hobby like drawing or painting. 
  • Go for a walk – when was the last time you walked for pleasure? 
  • Listen to music or a podcast. How often have we wanted more time to do this… let’s do this now! 
  • Spend some time in nature, your garden or a local park – this is so therapeutic. 

Ultimately though, just take changes one step at a time. 

We are living through an ever changing environment and so when you are next faced with new COVID rules or regulations, just remember to take big breaths and actively look for enjoyment in the moment.