The ups and downs right now are spanning the world.
It feels like a movie.
Every morning I wake up, I’m reminded of a reality I’m not quite ready to confront. All we’re being asked to do is stay home…that is all! But I know it’s hard to ignore the pain & fear being experienced around the world.
So, I wanted to share a few things I do every day that has been helping me stay positive and happy.
I feel privileged & thankful simultaneously - despite having 5 photography gig cancellations so far, I'm so thankful for my health and the health of those I love, the sunshine, listening to music and more. Click here for a great article about how gratitude can help you wherever you are in life. I have a gratitude journal I have written in every day since September and I can tell you it (along with therapy) pulled me out of a depressive episode. I owe a lot to simple gratitude!
1. Stay Thankful - write 3 things you're thankful for every day and watch your mind change.
Next, what have you been putting off that you've been wanting to do?
I have a massive list, from business development, education, art projects, to my overachieving goal of actually learning Spanish. (I'll do it one day, I promise!) I also love cooking and baking for its meditative quality. If you're prone to anxiety, learning how to make something new is a fantastic way to keep your mind positive while getting the gratification that you just made something that's dare I say, edible! Go you!
2. Pick a couple of fun projects! (Start small to build up your confidence before trying something big.) Cook, bake, draw, do some photography with your phone, download a free fun course online...etc. and I promise you'll feel so good!
Is there a calorie tracker for how many calories I burn while scrolling on my phone?
Lastly, it's important to be mindful of how much we are on social media. (Can my iPhone not say how many hours I was on my phone last week? Jeez SO rude!) It's so easy to get sucked in, and when there's stress surrounding me in the world, I can't help but be pulled in myself as a way to cope. I don't want to ignore it, but I can't let it overtake me! Balance is key here, but it's ok if you mess this up a little because I'll say it - we're all addicted (Ok, maybe just at least 90% of us are).
When I find myself getting sucked in, I just make my gosh darn eyes look up and out the window or even step outside for a few moments and let my thoughts wander. I feel like "the scrolls" happen when I may be avoiding thinking about something, or simply don't want to confront my boredom or procrastination. Be accepting of your thoughts, listen to them without judgment to identify what's holding you back.
3. When "The Scrolls" happen, just look out the window or step outside and nonjudgmentally let your thoughts wander. Listen to what you need!
I hope these things help! Much love & positive vibes to you and your loved ones!
<3 Mary
Bonus if you have pets. Go play with them and give them cuddles! But you already knew that ;)