The 7 R’s to Keep Calm and Carry On

By Seth Streeter, 3/13/2020

 Drag your thoughts away from your troubles... by the ears, by the heels, or any other way you can manage it. – Mark Twain

In light of the circumstance we find ourselves in, here are 7 strategies, each beginning with the letter R, for Resiliency, to stay strong, grounded and healthy:

Reward: Vulnerable populations and people working for certain industries are hit especially hard during this COVID-19 scare. School janitors are working tirelessly to keep our children safe. Travel, event, and hospitality employees are scrambling to deal with the onslaught of cancellations and our healthcare providers are holding down the front lines, taking care of long lines of people. Expressing appreciation for people who are at risk and showing up in this time of need can go a long ways. We can also contribute to nonprofit organizations that are providing critical services during this time of need. 

Who can I thank and how can I be generous today?

 Reconnect: It’s easy to get into self-protection mode when the world feels like it’s in a tailspin. Racing against fellow community members at the store to grab the last package of toilet paper is an example of the “me first” competitive mentality that prevails. Remembering that we are all in this together, as a community, while showing grace and compassion for others will invite more collective support and positive energy. 

How can I choose kindness when interacting with others during this time?

Remove: With the 24/7 media barrage about the virus, economy, and latest political tirade, it is easy to become glued to our screens to not miss the latest news alert. This, however, feeds an amplified fear response and heightens our levels of stress, potentially causing negative health consequences. Our devices all have off buttons for a reason, and we must routinely utilize them to find our center, disconnect from the noise and breathe peace back into our lives. 

When will I turn off my phone, computer and TV today to prioritize my emotional health?

 Reframe: While we all are affected in some ways by the news, cancellations and economic reaction to the COVID-19 situation, we are still so blessed! We live in a safe country that is not being bombed. We have a roof over our heads with plenty to eat. We have a bountiful supply of clean water to drink. We have friends and family in our lives. We have financial resources and access to top health care. With travel, meeting and school cancellations, we may also find we have more time. With the kids at home during school closures, bonding family memories can be created. We are simplifying our lives in some ways and focusing more on what really matters. There can be positives amongst the turmoil. We are truly the lucky ones on this planet, and it is good that we remind ourselves of this. 

What can I be grateful for today? 

 Routines: Practicing self-care should not be a rare activity we deploy only when challenging times arise. Instituting habits and routines that support our ongoing mental and emotional well-being will increase our happiness levels while also building resiliency for when times get tough. We can all initiate positive routine additions such as a 5 minute morning meditation, a daily stretching practice or turning off screens 30 minutes earlier at night and reading a book for pleasure before going to bed. 

What activities should I remove or add to my daily routine to help me feel better?

Reenergize: Our bodies need the right fuel to stay in optimum health. This includes eating nutritious foods, exercising, spending time in nature, getting adequate sleep and having fun. Making healthy choices for ourselves is within our control and can also be empowering. By taking a walk, eating a salad, listening to your favorite song or watching a funny movie you have the ability to boost your health and resiliency. 

What can I do today to improve my energy and health? 

Relax: It is important we give ourselves permission to relax during times of upheaval. We may feel inclined to remain vigilant and “on watch”, yet this can lead to chronic stress, a known contributor to weakened immunity. So give yourself the gift of a nap, a relaxing walk in the park, a massage, or 10 deep nourishing breathes. You will feel the difference right away, and your body will thank you. 

How can I give myself the gift of relaxation today?

Here’s to staying informed and protected, while keeping calm and carrying on. Taking steps to empower more resiliency in our lives will help us all navigate forward through this challenging time and beyond.