Right now we are experiencing a global pandemic, affecting all of us, directly or indirectly.
Covid 19, the Coronavirus.
I am noticing more fear, doubt, and hysteria.
Food is flying off the shelfs, stores are closing, economic uncertainty and health scares are abundant.
I am feeling it all.
As a highly sensitive and empathetic person, the vibration of those around me and of the world can sometimes be overwhelming.
While I am not affecting by the novel virus directly, the indirect implications are hard to manage at some times.
I find myself falling in to the trap of trying to control the fear of others; especially at work
"Don't be scared!"
"Please don't spread misinformation."
"Where did you read that?"
"Everything will be ok."
If I feel someone's fear oozing from their person, I immediately walk out of the room without a polite excuse. Pretty much my M.O. when I feel people are being 'overly negative'.
My behavior is not very helpful to myself, or supportive of others.
Why was I doing this?
Upon reflection a few days ago, I realized it was because I felt the responsibility of reducing people's fear. Also, I was indirectly trying to repel negative feelings so I did not become consumed with them myself.
As an empath, I feel very over whelmed by the extreme emotions of others, especially if I am not properly protecting my own energy or engaging in self care practices.
My solution is a Dialectic
I can remain calm and informed; positive and supportive
(I recommend staying informed through https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019).
How can we actively stay safe and healthy during this time?
Government and health organizations are requesting:
Being a fan of #alternativehealth practices, I also have been engaging in more routine health behaviors to satisfy the healthy of my body, soul, and emotions
Here are some additional ways to take care of yourself that I am actively incorporating into my life
Drink warm teas. Warm liquids helps to flush out toxins from your system better than cold fluids while teas are a flavorful way to get extra doses of antioxidants to fight stressors and viruses https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-drinking-hot-water#takeaway
Move your body. Going for a walk, easy or brisk, is a helpful way to get exercise. Especially while it is recommended to stay out of public places as much as possible. I use my morning walks as time to reflect, calm my nerves, repeat affirmations, and mindfully notice all the outdoor splendor.
Use your essential oils. You all know I am a big fan: loads of antioxidants, health AND emotional benefits?? Sign me up. Right now I am religiously consuming (yes, putting drops into my mouth) of the Dr. Oil and and using the Purify as a hand and air sanitizer. Both of which are on sale for your health needs in this time.
Reiki Healings. I normally don't practice Reiki healings on myself daily, but for right now I am. Like I previously mentioned I am hugely affected by the energies around me, and need to make sure I am maintaining a high and clear vibration during these times. If I don't I experience fear, self-doubt, panic, upset stomach, and back pain. Most of the Reiki practice I am offering to others right now is distance healing to maintain social distancing recommendations.
Expressing needs. Yesterday I felt panicked for a few hours, considering how this #coronavirus pandemic would affect myself and others. I expressed my fears to people I trust and verbalized how I needed them to talk me up, tell me everything was going to work out, how no matter what happened I would find a way through. Words of Affirmation are obviously very important to me. Words are so powerful, I try to be very conscious in using them to my benefit.
Finding Gratitude. There is so much uncertainty out there right now, for all of us. I know most of it is out of my control. I can be aware of the challenge at my feet and ahead of me, while also acknowledging the good things that are still happening (that's a dialectic people!) For example, my work as an esthetician might be shutting down and I am nervous about what that means for me financially, AND because work for many might be brought to a halt, I am able to spend more time with my loved ones, on self imposed vacation! I can also be incredibly grateful for my health, this time I have been granted to reach out to friends and catch up, to write this post, to reflect on my goals, to be silent with my hand over my heart, and my cat in my lap. There are good things still happening for you. What are they?
Conscious Choices. Everyday I get to create my reality. HEAR ME when I say that we can be aware of things, yet weave them differently into our blanket of life. Is your blanket constricting or scratchy? Or is your blanket comforting and warming?
I am determined not to let the fear win. I will not be scared of my neighbor, or life, or what is to come. Fear is the the real disease, it is more pervasive than anything we can imagine. I will have times when I need extra support or care to combat fear, and the goal is that I never let the fear stay long.
Stay Healthy Friends.
Comments