A New Normal?

Since starting 2020, a lot of us have had expectations and set new goals that we expected to conquer and consistently work on…but a lot of us have come to a startling halt with not only those goals, but now our every day lives. Covid-19 has been the topic of the world the past few months, and it’s been a lot to handle for all of us. With so much still in the air and theories and medications constantly changing, please remember that you are not alone during this unfortunate time. The anxiety can feel overbearing for some, but remember that one thing is certain among this war with the body…we are all in this together.

There is definitely some things we can do in order to help ease the tensions that are running through our own minds during these unprecedented times:

In Los Angeles, everyone is always out and about and blending with the hustle and bustle. Now that we’ve come to a temporary (yet overwhelming) stop on all types of gatherings, we’ve all found ourselves afraid, interrupted, and anxious of the uncertainty ahead. But remember to BREATHE and be GRATEFUL. Go on walks and clear Your mind. Fresh air is good to feel like you’re not constantly in isolation, and the walking is good to get your blood going, even if it’s a brisk walk around the block. Spend time doing the things you LOVE. Pick up the paint brush again, write in your journal, or learn to make that recipe you have always wanted to make. Call an old friend and see how they’re doing. Use this quiet time to clean and reorganize your home. When you de-clutter your space you’re more likely to feel less like you’re forced to be in your own space and more like you’re enjoying it. Read a book, or learn to meditate. It may feel like a negative space right now, & believe me when I say I feel it too sometimes, but we need to use this time to find solace within isolation.

IT COMES AND GOES IN WAVES

For myself, I’ve always had an issue sitting still. I generally work 12-14 hours a day. I know. It’s unbelievable, but that’s the television industry for you. Going from being a workaholic to suddenly being forced to sit at home has been extremely hard for me. It’s been challenging emotionally as a lot of us have had to take some time off and learn a new routine while they abide by the stay at home orders. A few ways I’ve been dealing with the wave of emotions is practicing a little more self-care:

• MEDITATION has been a new-found love for me. If I can go outside and sit in the garden for even 5 minutes and just practice still breathing, I tend to start my day with a much less negative outcome (as opposed to picking up Instagram as soon as my eyes open and waste away my morning being emotional).
• Face masks and skin treatments have helped me find a spa-like feel in the comfort of my pajamas! I like to lather myself in body butters and oils after my daily showers, and exfoliate more now that I have the time to do so. A little extra never hurt nobody, my skin is totally saying thank you!
• Believe it or not, I would consider not watching the news right now a practice of self-care for you mentally. The news is a super important outlet and it’s critical to assimilate information to the public, but if you sit and listen long enough, you will send yourself into a dark oblivion. Fear, anxiety, and misinformation are all a possible outcome of obsessing over the news outlets. Just abide the stay-at-home orders of your city, social distance, and wear a mask for your essential errands. You are already doing your part to stop the spread of this horrible disease if you’ve been doing so.

It is a troubling time, and I pray that we find the strength to keep on going. I’m with you.

Stay Tuned, Stay Healthy, & Stay Safe.

With Love & All Things Great.