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Showing posts from February, 2021

Destressing and Mindfulness Go Hand in Hand

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Stressed by changes in your life? Learn some tips to unwind and refocus. (Written for  http://www.wellbeing.place/home/2021/2/22/destressing-and-mindfulness-go-hand-in-hand ) The world is won by those who let it go. -Lao Tzu With constant stress and demands on our time, it can be more important than ever to incorporate mindfulness into our daily routine to help us cope with change.  The concept of mindfulness originated in Buddhist thinking and meditation practice over two and a half thousand years ago. Its original purpose was to address and relieve self-induced suffering caused by the dysfunctional ways people typically respond to their experiences.  While mindfulness has its primary roots in Buddhism, almost all religions encourage people to practice ways of shifting their thoughts away from their usual preoccupations and towards an appreciation of the moment and a larger perspective on life.  Over the past 30 years, mindfulness has become more secularized and sim...

Are You Feeling COVID-19 Fatigue?

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Learn what COVID-19 fatigue is, how to spot it and what to do if you've caught it. (Written for http://www.wellbeing.place/home/2021/2/16/are-you-feeling-covid-19-fatigue ) When the brain experiences uncertainty, it activates a “fight or flight” response in the body’s nervous system. After a long year filled with pandemic-related worries and precautions, this constant state of alert is taking a toll on many. Mental health experts have identified this new phenomenon as COVID-19 fatigue.  Your emotional wellbeing has never been more important. Caring for your mind and body can help you prevent COVID-19 fatigue from setting in. Some of the mental, emotional and physical symptoms to look out for can include: Exhaustion Feeling overwhelmed, sad or helpless Inability to finish daily tasks Not wanting to get up in the morning Increased irritability Reduced work performance Distraction Constant worrying or anxiety Physical and mental fatigue Insolating yourself from others Check out WellBe...

Can You Peacefully Disagree?

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  Explore tips to help you find common ground with others. (Written for http://www.wellbeing.place/home/2021/2/12/can-you-peacefully-disagree) One of the truest signs of maturity is the ability to disagree with someone while still remaining respectful. - Dave Willis In the modern world, we are surrounded by diversity daily. Diversity is more than just racial or cultural differences. It can also mean differences in age, gender, sexual orientation, various belief systems or religions, socio-economic status or political beliefs. Uncomfortable emotions surrounding world events, uncertainty, civil and political unrest, or diversity might include feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, angry, helpless and hopeless.  When you notice yourself getting upset, begin impulsively cutting ties with friends and family or feel overly anxious, it’s wise to pause, reset your brain and consider potential alternatives. We can build connections and relationships with others by trying to find comm...

Making Valentine's Day Special

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With a little planning and extra effort, this can be a holiday to remember! (Written for  http://www.wellbeing.place/home/2021/2/8/ways-to-celebrate-valentines-day-during-covid-19 ) Valentine’s Day is approaching and this year, planning a “stay-at-home” date is particularly relevant. Whether you are celebrating alone or with your significant other, BFF or the entire family, a little extra effort can make this a sweet and fun holiday to remember! Make breakfast in bed or have an indoor picnic for lunch or dinner. Taking the time to make your sweetheart’s favorite meal or ordering from their favorite restaurant with curbside or delivery options is an excellent way to show you care about them. Whether you can stay home with your loved ones or are in a long-distance relationship, writing a sincere card or love letter telling them how grateful you are for them is always appreciated! This can also be a fun activity for children, as you pull out the art supplies and get creative with DIY ...

Staying Flexible During Change

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Improve your mental and emotional flexibility so you can better adapt to change. (Written for http://www.wellbeing.place/home/2021/2/2/how-to-improve-your-flexibility-in-life ) Flexibility is the key to stability.  - John Wooden   When you think of the word flexible, images of gymnasts and yoga classes may be the first to come to mind. However, being emotionally and mentally flexible is actually important to your overall wellbeing, particularly during times of change.  Learning to recognize your strengths and how to use them when life throws you a curveball can reduce stress and anxiety. And like many things, the more you practice, the more you learn. Here are a few ways you can increase your flexibility so you can continue to move forward when change happens: Maintain a Sense of Perspective . Try to step back from your thoughts and see the bigger picture. Ask yourself, "How big is this problem really?" and "What do I need to do?" Remember to keep things in proporti...