Learn how to manage stress while living through a Pandemic.
Let’s start with an operational definition. What is a Pandemic? Basically, it’s a large-scale health crisis that effects the entire globe. Lots of people get involved when there is a pandemic including local, state and federal health agencies as well as non-governmental organizations. This Pandemic is significant, we are experiencing this on a personal, economic and a relational scale that rocks our routines sending aftershock tremors into our communities. A Pandemic can be the wrench in the gears of life. An international event like we are currently experiencing has the potential to be a defining moment in our lives. If we are open and willing and commit to practicing good wellness, we can weather these storms in a healthy and positive way.
Now is the time to build lasting resources in your mental health
Learn three ideas to reduce anxiety before, during and after the pandemic passes.
- Being prepared during a Pandemic means covering the basics of food, clothing and shelter. It also means being prepared in your mind and having a good self-care program to endure the crisis and thrive in your life.
- Seek professional counseling to enhance your psychological/emotional health and provide you with tools to manage your anxiety (South Main Street Counseling Center).
- Remember your humanity. Practice good communication. Be of service to your family, friends and community.
Time to know more about your physiology- study this advanced Pandemic Planning insight.
We have a “Stress Hormone” that can be reduced by simple exercises and mindful meditation. The goal is to reduce the hormonal impact of stress and anxiety on our brain, nervous, and glandular systems. If we perceive a threat our magnificent body machine gets busy protecting us. Prolonged levels of stress are corrosive to our anatomy and physiology; chronic health conditions are born out of this process. We can be defeated by stress, be it world disease issues or relationships; we need tools to adapt and heal on a positive path to recovery.
- Cortisol: The main hormone that drives the fight/flight stress response. It’s our physiologic built in alarm system. Cortisol also plays a role in other organ systems and processes. It is a remarkable hormone.
- Stress: Any stimulus that creates a response in our body/mind reaction and increases adrenal gland secretions. When the Cortisol levels saturate your body, it perpetuates the “fight or flight” response.
- Anxiety: A state of worries and concerns that are difficult for us to overcome and may interfere with our activities of daily living.
Let’s move away from the pandemic and into the practical. How can we reduce our anxiety and limit our worrying by lowering our cortisol levels? Our goal is to recognize when we are feeling anxious and stressed. Then develop and practice routines of exercises that are rhythmic and repetitive like Tai Chi, yoga, dance and hiking. In addition, mindful meditation and focused breathing are a significant start to mastering your recovery from stress and anxiety.
