Whether you regularly wrestle with fear and anxiety or not, it is a challenge to not get swept away with these emotions right now. Every news story is explosive. Social media is full of rumors and pictures of empty grocery shelves. I have gotten an email from every business imaginable telling me about how they are responding to COVID-19. It is all too much. So how can we try to find peace and calm in the midst of the chaos?

Limit social media

Social media is not evil. It is however one of those places online where you can get sucked down the rabbit hole. You do not know what information you will see there or if it is accurate. Set a time limit for yourself, and stick to it.

Seek authentic connection

Now is a great time to seek deeper connection with others. Instead of sending a text or making a comment online, how about making a phone call? If you can video chat, that is even better. Keeping physical distance from those we care about is difficult, so let’s do our best to reach out in the ways we can. It is possible that we can come to the other side of this season feeling closer and more connected to our community.

Pursue hobbies

You know that stack of books you’ve been meaning to get to? That instrument that has been gathering dust in your basement? The exercise equipment that doubles as a clothes rack? Pull them out and get cracking! If you are like me, there is always a to do list of things I’ll get to when I have time. NOW is that time!

Mindfulness

One of the best ways to combat anxiety is through mindfulness. Take some time to meditate on scripture and God’s word. Spend some time in prayer. There are some really good resources available to help with this. I’ve been using an app call “Soultime” that uses scripture and prayer to guide you through some mindfulness exercises. I always feel more calm after spending even a few minutes with it. I’m sure there are other resources as well.

Get outside

As the numbers of places we can go are restricted, we can still get outside. When the sun is out and we are moving our bodies, this can really help us to work out some of our fears and anxieties. Do some yardwork. Connect with neighbors (6 feet away, haha).

We will get through this together. We are praying for you! Please share any special needs you have so we can include those specific things in our prayer time. Also, please know that we are available during this season. Our office can be reached at 303-863-7757. Or, you can email us at info@wheregraceabounds.org.