How should we be responding during this virus pandemic? We can react by spreading panic. Or, we can respond by spreading presence. We can do this even as we strive not to spread the Corona Virus.
Some of us are panicking. Their response to this threat is to engage in a scarcity, self-survival mindset. They run to stores not simply to get what they need for a few weeks, but to hoard food and supplies. Their panic is contagious. As others observe their buying frenzy, they often start to panic too. This spreads a self-protective, self-centered perspective that is the last thing we need in a global crisis.
The question I’m asking myself is how can we make being present and in community contagious even while we engage in appropriate “social distancing” and other protective measures? What I’ve come up with is:
- Breathe deeply: When we breathe deeply, we calm down the physical manifestations of fear created by our nervous system. This takes us out of the fight-flight survival mentality and enables us to see a wider perspective beyond ourselves.
- Focus on what you can control: When we focus on what is outside our control, it can lead to obsessive thinking, which leads to panic or paralysis. Focusing on what is in our control, can stop this obsessive thinking and enable us to make intentional choices.
- Offer help to others: When we offer help to others, we feel more connected. This helps us remember that survival and well-being depend on community and connection.
- Follow appropriate advice: The one message that comes across loud and clear from all reliable medical sources is wash your hands, don’t touch your face, stay away from crowds, and keep a social distance from other. What’s wonderful about social distancing is that it reminds us of how important connection is. It’s a great opportunity to use the Internet for maintaining communication and connection.
So, what have you come up with that you can share to create community and connection?
Thanks for this, Deb. I will
add this to my COVID – 19 survival info packet.
Take care Nick!
Excellent message Deb. I’m hoping by April this hysteria will have passed, or at least lessened. Walking my dog for one hour each morning certainly helps. Dog and cats are great comforts when the humans around us go into panic mode.
Perfect message Deb. Thank you for taking the time from this situation to remind us of what is important and what we can control. Hope to see you in 2020. Until then, be well.
Great advice and something I will share with others. Thank you.
While remaining at home, try to tackle long avoided projects. Get rid of that pile of papers that have been “plaguing” you (pun intended). Send inspiring music videos to friends and family who you know will enjoy them. If you are an artist of any kind, start an artistic endeavor that will enrich your life. If you live with people, spend more time with them. Cook a meal together and share it. If you have a pet, SNUGGLE!
Deb: Thank you for sharing your thoughtful description of the reactive mind and apt thoughtful actions that I/we can do to be supportively active in the moment. I also suggest that we can choose to forgive ourselves if we become reactive and then breathe. Love Pat