Since the Corona virus pandemic has burst into our lives, it’s been over five months that I, along with many of you, have been sheltered-in-place. Well, once a week I do go to my favorite nearby supermarket (Trader Joe’s) and do some walks behind my house. Normally, I try to look on the positive side of life, but being locked down for so long has been giving me its downward signs. I bet you can relate to that, can’t you?
So yes, this time is changeling for me too, and I found myself saddened at times, and caught myself in downward spiral of thoughts. (Yes, it happens to me too sometimes).
After feeling sorry for myself, I reminded myself that although we need to be socially distant, I can still meet/call my friends virtually regardless of their geographical location. We are indeed blessed to be living in an era that allows that technologically!
So I called a good friend of mine. She listened and then gave me an order:
“Tomorrow you’re going to the beach. You need some ‘Vitamin Sea’. And take your older son with you. Treasure every minute you can with him before he moves out of the house.” She recommended a place I should go to and instructed me to send her pictures from my trip the following day.
She was right. Instead of focusing on what I don’t have or want, I should be focusing on what I do have and want. (This is exactly how I encourage my coaching clients to do). Since universities transitioned to online studies for now, we are fortunate to still have our older son at home with us for a little longer. With the days of the week looking similar, I sometimes lose track on time, and time is precious. And so I'm so glad my friend reminded me of that, and that nature is right around the corner, and that I’m definitely not locked in prison and should not allow my spirit to fall into that perceived trap.
I also liked the fact that she challenged me to commit to taking action. I now felt that she’s my accountability buddy, and I was more committed to show her that I am taken on this challenge.
I talked to my son, who immediately agreed to join me. (That was much easier than I thought!).
The following morning, I packed a beg with water, food, hats, sunscreen, an outdoor folding mat, walking shoes, and flip flops.
We had a perfect day together. Great weather, great company, exploring nature, hiking, and resting by the ocean.
During our day trip, I was simply in the moment. Being immersed in the experience, feeling grateful that I have a great partner for the trip, and cherishing every moment. I got back home feeling happy and hopeful.
We decided to make it a habit. The following week we went to another day trip. (I’ll save that to another post 😊)
So, if you find yourself feeling blue, take yourself to a source of water: a lake, a river, an ocean, a waterfall, a creek. I challenge you to get some ‘Vitamin Sea’. Consider me as your accountable buddy. Go and explore. Be in the moment. Relax. Connect to the infinite universe and know that just as the ebb and flow of the water, life has its highs and lows, and this challenging time shall pass, too, and you will come stronger on the other side. Enjoy the opportunities this time has to offer you.
How do you lift yourself up? What do you find to be beneficial for you?
I would love to hear back from you!
And please send me some photos from your trip.
Much Love & Gratitude,
Michelle