Covid19: Dealing with Fear
Last week I had busy schedule writing for my website, working out and balancing a house full of kids. Sure I was keeping up with the news… but I must admit life was pretty normal. All that changed on Friday the 13th. Maybe the date has something to do with it, but I woke up to a whole new reality! That Friday, I went to the gym as usual and noticed it was considerably empty. While working out, I was informed that Schools and Universities would be shutting down effective Monday. From there I headed to the market and walked into full pandemonium. I heard rumors of people stocking up toilet paper and water in Costco but didn’t pay it much attention. I figured there is no fear of water shortage since we can always boil tap water if needed, but I didn’t expect to see what I saw! Market shelves completely empty, lines to the back of the store and shopping carts filled to the rim. Similarly, this seemed to be the trend across town.
In one week’s time our life had completely changed! The coronavirus had created a new level of panic in people I never thought possible. Besides the craziness in the grocery stores, there was another undeniable difference. I noticed fear in everyone’s eyes. The initial one was avoiding the virus, but the bigger panic seemed to be what’s going to happen in the future? Will we be safe? Would we run out of food and water? What will life be like from now on? Although it seems like our future is uncertain, I have discovered some amazing techniques to help deal with these fears.
What is Fear?
To a degree, fear is a healthy survival mechanism to keep us safe and alive. When we perceive danger, it causes our brain and body to respond immediately. This basic human instinct of fight or flight raises our sense of awareness and increases our heart rate so blood can flow to our muscles. But what happens when we let fear take over our life? The oldest and strongest emotion of mankind is fear, and the oldest and strongest kind of fear is fear of the unknown–H. P. Lovecraft
I tried looking at things from an optimistic point of view but I was fighting an internal battle. Was I under prepared for this? Should I have over-stocked? My thoughts were bouncing back and forth from interpreting the numbers of those infected/deaths to media sensationalism. I should state that I am not an expert in analyzing statistics, but I realized that I still had a choice in how I reacted.
When we are consumed by fear it can be paralyzing. Although Coronavirus does present a real threat to our health & life, living in a constant state of anxiety and stress can be just as unhealthy. Aside from social distancing, washing our hands and using protecting masks and gloves, we all run the risk of exposure when we go out to get the basic essentials. We cannot control that fact, but we still have full control over our mind. Since our mind and body have a strong connection, we can do many things to deal with the fear.
Dealing with Fear
When we shift our thoughts from fear to positive thinking, it not only helps us stay healthier, but it actually allows us to think more rationally. Studies have shown the benefits of positive thinking not only relieves stress but also increase our immune system, which is something we can all benefit from during this epidemic. I would like to share some effective and easy methods and in dealing with fear amid the Corona Virus.
Releasing Through Meditation
The simplest and easiest method in dealing with fear is by practicing meditation and breathing. Although this might seem difficult to do right now, it is actually one of our best lines of defense. You see, our mind is a powerful tool! It can attract illness with negative thoughts and it can also help us stay healthy through positive ones. In order to shift our thoughts away from fear, we first need to quiet our mind. There are numerous ways you can meditate. I prefer sitting in stillness for a few minutes each day, in order to restore peace in my body. This not only reduces my anxiety, but it also helps me to sleep better at night.
Using Affirmations
Another way to deal with our fear and promote wellbeing is by using positive affirmations. Repeating powerful mantras each day can direct our subconscious and conscious mind to maintain great health. I have heard many people say “no matter what we do, eventually most of us will catch this virus. “ Statements and thoughts such as these are considered as negative affirmations to our brain. If we have a choice of what to feed our mind, then we should choose positive words and phrases. You can chant them throughout the day, in the shower or front of the mirror. There are numerous types of positive affirmations you can use, but here are some simple and easy ones to help you deal with the coronavirus fear:
I am Healthy and Strong!
We are going to be OK!
I am Calm and at Peace!
I appreciate and Love my Body!
Daily Exercise
Now is the time, more than ever, to move our body. The fear and stress from this coronavirus does not only consume our thoughts but they have a profound effect on our physical well being. Taking a walk, going on a hike or riding a bike could help us feel better by releasing “feel good” endorphins in our brain. Exercising outdoor, while still maintaining social distancing, can help us take a break from the constant flow of negative thoughts and fears. Many times tapping out for 20 minutes can help restore a little sense of normalcy to our life. If going outside is not possible, there are still ways to work out at home. With all the thousands of videos online, I have outlined some great workouts for all levels to make it easier for you to get started:
Playing Games
Now that everyone is being asked to quarantine and stay at home, this is one of those rare opportunities for all of us to pause life. With all the fears of health, safety and financial worries, our mind can sure use a little break. Engaging in fun play is another method to deal with fears, not only for adults but for children as well. In my house, I have taken down all the board games from the closet shelf and brought them into the living room. Each night we try to play a different family game. The amount of laughter and cheating that goes on definitely lightens up everyone’s’ mood and helps alleviate the boredom and reduce stress. Here some fun and classical games the entire family can enjoy:
Monopoly
Puzzles
Jenga
Memory Game
Pictionary
Getting Creative
With so much time on our hands, we all have choices. Do we check the news every hour? Watch the hundreds of videos being sent with advice and warnings? The truth is… staying informed is important during this time, but spending the entire day consumed by the news often leads to increased stress. Another amazing way to deal with fear is to get creative!
Many of us have talents that we have suppressed over the years due to our busy and hectic schedules. Writing a journal, a short poem or story is a great way to shift our mind. Some of my dance teachers uploaded free online classes and shared them with others to learn at home. One of my daughters decided to work on her art portfolio and sketch one of her best drawings yet (above picture). If you love to cook and are able to find the ingredients on the shelf, whip up a new recipe to share with your family. Getting creative not only helps divert our attention from fear, but it can open up new opportunities once this period of time passes.
Final Note
This epidemic took the world by surprise forcing all of us to stop our fast pace lifestyle. Despite all the chaos and fear, this is a unique opportunity to be with our close family that many of us were unable to do before. Use this time to find inner peace, create lasting memories and expand your skills and talents.
-Stay Safe
