During difficult times like these, it’s important that we stay well and look after ourselves. But how do we do that? Katie Bray, yoga teacher and registered nurse, shares her insights.
When the unexpected happens, what do you do?
There are lots of ways of dealing with the unexpected, but rather than just coping, there are other ways to deal with things which will leave you feeling healthier and will give you some control back.
If you’re only coping, you might feel cross, angry or frustrated, signs of non acceptance, you may be drinking more alcohol, eating more, or not eating enough. But choosing these strategies may actually make things worse.
In the current ebb and flow of life – a pandemic – how do you choose to react?
The term ebb and flow of life sums up completely how I now deal with difficult situations. Rather than fight, get angry and cope by using any of the above strategies, I now choose to go completely with the flow. By accepting where we are today and moving straight into action. And changing the things that I can change.
I’ve moved my face-to-face yoga classes onto an online platform, and stayed as present as I can be by continuing with my yoga and meditation, which keeps me and my family healthy. I allow my emotions to come and go, but not attach to them, it’s just a healthy observation of how I’m feeling on a daily basis.
So, what are my tips for moving through this life changing experience?
1. Stay in the present moment
At times it may be uncomfortable, but the longer you sit with the feelings of now, the easier things become. This is a skill, but it helps with the acceptance of any situation.
2. Give meditation a go
One way of staying in the present moment is with meditation. You can either sit on the floor, or sit in a chair, or even lie down. Check out the Headspace app.
3. Keep a daily routine of being active
Being close to nature is ideal, as it brings you back to the idea of the ebb and flow in nature, so any movement outside is great (if you can).
4. Try practicing yoga
Like meditation, yoga helps with staying in the present moment. It also helps with building strength and resilience in the mind and the body.
5. Keep healthy with your food choices
Eat less processed food and choose a balanced diet with fresh fruit and vegetables if you can.
6. Write stuff down
Journal how you’re feeling as it may help you notice and process your emotions, good and bad.
7. Set a daily intention or daily commitment
8. Be there for others
The more we do for others, the greater our own sense of wellbeing is.
9. Stay connected
Connect with your friends and family with a WhatsApp group, keeping energy high and positive.
10. Be open to change
Adapting to change is key in managing your wellbeing and although on paper this may sound easy, it takes a bit of getting used to, but once mastered the benefits are vast. They will ripple through your family in such a positive way.
Katie Bray is a yoga teacher and registered nurse specialising in diabetes care. She runs weekly yoga lessons, currently online, and holds yoga retreats in Cornwall. To contact Katie or find out more about her business, please visit her website katiebrayyoga.com or follow her on Instagram @katiebrayyoga