During this challenging time, I am sharing a few thoughts with you

Understandably, we might be feeling ill at ease, anxious and fearful as a response to what is unfolding in our world and more immediate surroundings. The unpredictability of life envelopes us in a sea of disequilibrium that is unfamiliar and destabilising. It is important to try and focus on each day and you might like to try some of the following.

Try to

• Establish a routine
• Limit time spent accessing social media. Do not have the news on 24 hours a day.
• Write your thoughts down and put them aside.
• Consider doing something you might have put off. e. an online course/reading a good book.
• Follow informed news sources i.e. the government/scientific advice to keep us safe.
• Check on an elderly neighbour – pop a note through the door/arrange to speak on the telephone.
• Speak about your worries and be patient with others, as they speak about their concerns.
• Try something new – mindfulness practice to still your thoughts.

Try not to

• Sleep with your mobile device nearby – ideally switch devices off during sleeping hours
• Constantly watch the news/social media
• Drink above the recommended limit on alcohol consumption
• Don’t eat too much
• Lose contact with friends and family – stay connected
• Only discuss the crisis

Anxiety is a response that prepares us for an unexpected event and the chemicals released prepare us for flight, fight or freeze response.  In this way, we are ready for action but in our current time that is impossible, as the uncertainty prevails. Please consider the steps above to help manage your day to day and do the things that help you stay calm and centred.

Useful links:

• GOV UK
• NHS website
• Headspace: Meditation & Sleep app.
• Deep Meditation: Relaxation & Sleep Meditation App.