It’s difficult to articulate just how bizarre the past two years have been. To say our lives were disrupted is quite an understatement. A veil of fear descended upon the planet and caused rifts and schisms we could never have imagined. People were divided in a wide variety of new and dangerous ways. And now, the veil is being lifted and it appears we’re just expected to return to “normal.”
If you’re experiencing an avalanche of emotions, you are not alone. You might be scared or angry or very, very confused. But rest assured, you can thrive in your new post-pandemic, in-person life.
How the Pandemic Changed Virtually Everything
Inability to socialize in person
Loss of contact with loved ones
Health concerns and fears
Small businesses were forced to close and many never reopened
Work-from-home
Virtual schooling
Deepening political divides
Loss of trust in many institutions
Escalation of mental health issues
The list goes on. So, since we’re being asked to go back to as many pre-pandemic activities as possible, let’s explore some fundamental options to help you along the way.
6 Ways to Deal with the Emotions Plaguing Your New Post-Pandemic, In-Person Life
1. Embrace Mindfulness
The depth of global fear is enough to transport anyone into a place of dreading the future. What will happen next? How will I cope? Mindfulness is a practice that helps you stay in the present moment. All we have is now. Being reminded of this is a good way to distance yourself from the non-stop barrage of gloom and doom. Some of the more popular ways to embrace mindfulness are meditation and breathing exercises.
2. Take Your Time
You can’t undo more than two years of conditioning in one fell swoop. You’ve already undergone so many changes without any warning. As most of the pandemic restrictions are being walked back, it’s not unusual to resist another wave of changes. So, move forward slowly and mindfully.
3. Set Your Priorities
Once you have begun to “re-enter” real life, be sure to do what feels most important. For example, since March 2020, you have probably missed many milestones and events. Well, guess what? There’s no law stating that you can’t celebrate them now. It might be a graduation or a birthday or an anniversary. So, reschedule the event and let yourself experience what was taken away from you.
4. Get Outside
Humans were definitely not meant to stay indoors. Our minds and bodies crave the sun and movement and nature and interactions with our surroundings. Exploit any excuse you can to be outdoors as often as possible.
5. Create a Steady Self-Care Regimen
The foundation of your well-being is self-care. Everyone must pledge themselves to daily, non-negotiable rituals and practices. Here are some of the many elements to include in your self-care regimen:
Make healthy eating and drinking choices
Exercise daily — whether it be some kind of sport, fitness routine, or simply going for a walk
Take time each day to simply breathe
Get yourself on a steady sleep schedule — both waking time and bedtime
Cultivate stress management and relaxation techniques, e.g. meditation
Keep a journal to track your emotions and express your gratitude
Create a trusted social circle with whom you can comfortably discuss your feelings and thoughts
Ask for help when you need it
Don’t Wait to Start Asking For Help…
You’ve spent enough time alone. If the latest round of transitions has become overwhelming, connect with someone who has the skills to help you. Therapy is an ideal option for times of turmoil like this. Read more today to learn about anxiety treatment. I invite you to reach out to set up a safe and confidential consultation.
