Coping with Covid…

Here we are, 2021!

The new year signifies new beginnings, a chance to start fresh, work on yourself, exercise more, and all the rest of the things we tell ourselves as December 31st approaches. BUT 2021 isn’t really starting that way, is it? It’s just a continuation of the year we’ll never forget for the rest of our lives. On one hand, perhaps we got to spend more time with family, slow down more than we’ve ever been able to before, read, sleep in, etc., but on the other hand, some of us experienced heartbreaking loss, sickness, loss of income or many other unfortunate events that were completely unexpected.

Either way because of the ongoing pandemic, feelings of anxiety, anger, hopelessness, loneliness, and depression (amongst others) may creep in when we least expect it and stay a bit longer than we would like them to. What are some things you can do to help cope with these feelings that are not welcome but barge their way into our existence anyway?

To start, you can just breathe.

I know, it sounds really simple and trite, but do you know there is actual science behind this very easy and calming technique? Allow me to break it down:

• The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are involved in breathing

• The sympathetic nervous system causes the fight or flight response when we feel threatened or scared

• The parasympathetic system is involved in resting and relaxation along with other vital functions

• When we’re anxious, nervous, or worried our sympathetic nervous system is activated which causes heart rate and breathing to quicken

• Breathing in and out slowly activates the parasympathetic nervous system and in turn reduces emotional arousal leading to a feeling of relaxation and clearer thinking

How can you do this?

• Breathe in for 4 seconds, then breathe out for 7-8 seconds

• Breathing out more slowly is extremely important as this activates the parasympathetic nervous system: your friend when feelings of anxiety, worry, loneliness or anger start to creep in

• Start with one minute of breathing and work your way up to as many minutes as you wish

So, that’s it! This tip is a great way to ensure your 2021 will start on a good note despite everything going on around us.

Wishing you a safe and happy start of the year!