The pandemic and ‘covid normal’ world has affected many of us over the past 2 years leaving an unanticipated impact on how we experience life - steeped in fear and anxiety.
These negative emotions have affected us in varying degrees:
~ anxiety about our health and the wellbeing of friends, family and colleagues
~ social anxiety
~ social isolation
~ financial anxiety due to employment uncertainty
~ fear of failure
This fear continues to be exacerbated by social media, television and constant news reporting.
So how can we make a difference – for our own mental wellness and for others?
Start with gratitude - be thankful for what you do have.
Incorporate at least one of these 5 mindful practices throughout your day:
. when you have made a cup of tea – sip it mindfully, enjoy the aroma and taste sensations
. walk with an attitude and intention of gratitude
. sit on the balcony or park bench to embrace the beauty of nature
. look deeply at the leaves on a tree, the feathers of a bird, or petals of flowers
. breath in the fresh air and feel a gentle breeze.
These are a few simple things that can ground you and bring back a sense of peace and harmony.
Take a few moments to consider - what else brings you a sense of peace? Make time to do that!
When we are kind and compassionate toward ourselves, we have greater capacity to be compassionate toward others.
I encourage you to bring some kindness into other people’s life. This can be achieved simply by smiling at someone as they pass by. Even when wearing a mask, you can see the smile in someone’s eyes! Your act of kindness may brighten their otherwise lonely experience.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world, indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Anthropologist Margaret Mead