Living in this new normal has been quite an interesting experience. Going from a fast pace lifestyle to living in this forced pause called ‘COVID-19’ has definitely made me realize to focus on silver linings and practice gratitude.
I am sure a lot of us can relate to the level of anxiety and stress we are all feeling right now, not to mention if you are an essential worker like myself. There’s overwhelming amount of information bombarded at us each day at work and in media. Carrying emotions of clients and others around can take a toll on us over time if we don’t navigate through it properly. Mental health, which was once a voodoo subject, has become crucial right now in this pandemic.
One of the priories for me during pandemic has been taking care of my mental health by focusing on the little things I love, things that instantly put a smile on my face which is being in nature for a walk or a hike. In the Japanese culture, they call it “Shinrin-Yoku” known as ‘forest bathing’.
It is a therapy that was developed in Japan during the 1980’s, becoming a cornerstone of preventative health care and healing in Japanese medicine. I know we can’t enjoy our beautiful trails in our beautiful Squamish due to social distancing right now but even just going for a walk outside in nature nearby in your neighborhood, having a spontaneous picnic in your backyard, or planting a garden can bring you a lot of joy, not to mention the positive psychological effects on your mental health.
Hiking and spending time in nature have always been near and dear to my heart. Apart of travelling and experiencing new cultures being my top favorite activity, hiking is a very close second. Given the circumstances, since the first option is not possible, I have resorted to being in nature, which helps me decompress from the long work days.
Even if I am tired or unmotivated, I have been making a conscious effort of going outside for a hike/walk every day after a long day of work. By the end of the adventure, I am more energetic, positive and more hopeful than ever. Being in the forest makes me feel rejuvenated and inspired. It’s soul food.
This pandemic has also made me realize maybe this is a sign to slow down to enjoy the beauty around us, call a friend to check in, spend time with family, start that new hobby you have always wanted to do but never had time for. We miss so much in the midst of societal chaos, daily pressures and obligations.
Go outside, and breathe in the fresh air. Lastly, if there is one consistent thing we can see in the history of tragic events globally, it always brings people together. We can get through this as well.
P.S.: Eat well, sleep well and don’t forget to wash your hands, as if you haven’t heard that enough.
