Shift of Perspective
It is a strange time indeed. With “shelter in place,” we are living a surreal existence that none of us could have imagined or thought possible. We are working from home, schooling from home, and basically doing everything from home. There are a whirlwind of emotions, ranging from uncertainty and fear to a renewed sense of stillness and simplicity.
Amidst the many challenges we are facing, I’m finding a lot to appreciate in this moment. For one, this is the first time in years when I am not constantly driving from school, to the gym, to work, to various errands, to martial arts, to dance, to tutoring, and then rushing home to make dinner. I finally have time to garden in my backyard. My children are engaging in more art, reading and creative play. We are waking up at 7:30 instead of 6:00 each morning, which seems to have an overall positive impact on the entire family. Sure, I’ve had moments when I sat in my car in the garage just to get away from my family for a few minutes and I definitely miss in-person social interactions, but on the whole I’m feeling grateful for this pause.
During the downtime, my children and I created a top-ten list titled, “How we will survive ‘shelter in place’ without going crazy or killing each other.” I find this list picks me up and brings me out of the darkness and into the light. Perhaps it will help you too.
Get outside everyday.
Wake up at a regular time Monday-Friday.
Allow for personal space.
Order a few new books, games, art supplies, and cooking tools.
Keep up with personal hygiene.
Get dressed everyday except Friday, which is pajama day.
Enjoy special food treats, but eat mostly healthy-ish. (Do not run out of ice cream!)
Everyone helps with house chores.
Family movie nights are M, W, F and family game nights are T, Th, Sat. Stargaze on Sunday evenings.
Use only two squares of toilet paper, unless absolutely necessary.
I encourage you to make a “survival” or “wellness” list of your own with your family, significant other, or even your pet (imagine what he/she might say). This unusual time is full of unique opportunities. What can you appreciate in this moment?