ADJUSTING TO CHANGE
I grew up hearing and practicing the serenity prayer, accepting the things I cannot change, but never have I felt so helpless and that this prayer is “out the window.” The COVID-19 coronavirus affected and is continuing to affect the world. For the first time in my career, I can say that I am experiencing the same anxiety, fears, and uncertainty as my clients simultaneously. I have seen catastrophes throughout my life but what the world is experiencing now is unprecedented. Many have adopted different ways of coping. Some are glued to the news and social media, others are having virtual happy hour, taking walks, binge-watching Netflix, having zoom parties. Recently, America started opening, and it felt like all hell broke loose. Some people are just reckless and so inconsiderate, and I must admit, I personally need to learn how to process exceedingly difficult emotions and automatic thoughts surrounding so many difficult issues.
Psychology Today noted that when we do not notice little changes, it does not impact us as much, but when we are caught off guard is when we get discombobulated. I fell in love with the word “resilience,” which means being able to cope with change. Though your environment and genes might influence your level of resilience, the amount is not set in stone. I can identify with this word. I consider myself resilient. However, the issue with the chaos we are experiencing today is that this pandemic hit us like an unexpected big wave and it can feel like the wave is stuck in one spot getting bigger and stronger and we have no control.
What is disturbing is that we do not have the time to process these events and emotions. We are in a survival mode, flight or fright, or freeze. I do not know about you, but for me and those I speak to on a regular basis, we are experiencing an emotional roller coaster. Some, including, me are trying to stay alive, protecting ourselves and our families is our priority and it hurts when others do not think alike. I literally force myself to look for the humanitarian acts and hold on to them.
One Instagram post resonated with me, “if you can’t go outside, go within.” This quote woke me up, it totally makes sense, we are forced to isolate. What a perfect time to go within. I challenge you and myself to sit with your feelings, fears, and anxiety. Jack Kornfield, one of my favorite meditation teachers has a meditation where you intentionally focus on the breath. Sitting still and doing nothing but focusing on the breath. This meditation is the hardest task for me. It is easier to find distractions, to run away. I encourage you to ask for wisdom, take time to go within, reflect, and rest your heart, body, and mind. We live in a quick fix busy world. Sit with your breath and share with me how you feel after. It works!