Hello out there~~
After putting my daughter in part-time daycare back in February, I was hoping I could spend more time in my private practice—seeing clients, launching the Weight-Inclusive Dietitians in Canada education platform, getting back to blogging and social media. Of course, like the rest of the world, COVID-19 put a wrench in my plans.
I know I’m fortunate in many ways. I don’t personally know anyone who has contracted the virus, my husband and I still have our jobs, our pantry is well-stocked and we’ve been able to get everything that we want and need. Still, like everyone else, we haven’t been able to escape the uncertainty, anxiety, stress, and panic that has come with this pandemic.
Now that I’ve finally been able to carve out a few moments to write, I feel like I don’t have anything to say that hasn’t already been said. There are already so many brilliant posts about:
- Why it’s normal and OK for your eating habits to be different right now.
- Why the “COVID-15”, “COVID-19”, “COVID-25” jokes are fatphobic and honestly should be the least of your worries when people are literally dying.
- Why BMI is not a risk factor for getting COVID-19 or having more severe symptoms.
- Why washing your fruits and vegetables with anything other than water might NOT a good food-safety practice.
- Why it’s OK to not be productive during a freakin’ pandemic.
So let me start by asking: How are you? Have you had a chance to check in and have a moment to yourself these past few weeks? Maybe you haven’t out of necessity—perhaps you are a front-line worker, perhaps you’re caring for others, or perhaps that how you care for yourself. Or maybe you have been checking in regularly, though it never hurts to get an extra nudge as a reminder and affirmation.
Wherever you’re at, if it’s safe to do so, I invite you to take a deep breath and check in. How do you feel? Are you noticing any discomfort, or tightness in your body? Resist the urge to fix, or to get rid of it just for a moment, and allow yourself to notice. When we live in a culture that encourages us to suppress, hide, or fix anything “negative” or uncomfortable, sometimes noticing and acknowledging the messages from your body—your inner wisdom—is enough.
If you’re at a place where you’d like to make a change, ask yourself: What can I do to get closer to having my needs met with the resources I have right now? Maybe it’s continuing to breathe and rest, getting a glass of water, going outside or opening a window for some fresh air, fixing a snack. Whatever you decide to do (or not do), be compassionate with yourself. It doesn’t have to be perfect, because we aren’t perfect.
#SelfCare question: What can I do to get closer to having my needs met with the resources I have right now? Whatever you decide to do (or not do), it doesn't have to be perfect, because we aren't perfect ❤️ Click To TweetIt’s OK if you still feel like you’re floundering. It’s OK to feel like you’re not doing enough, or that you’re a few steps behind. This is true at any time, but especially during these unprecedented times. We’re all trying our best in our own way.
For some folks it’s about keeping busy as a way to distract, to numb, or to feel a sense of accomplishment or normalcy during these difficult times. For others, any suggestion of work or productivity can feel overwhelming and paralyzing. For some, it’s closing in and keeping to themselves. For others, it’s lashing out because they don’t know what to do with their emotions.
We’ve all been touched by this pandemic in some way (hopefully not by the virus itself.) It’s OK to not have it all together. Just surviving—and washing your hands and social distancing—is enough.
It's OK to not have it all together. Just surviving (and washing your hands and social distancing) is enough. #COVID19 Click To Tweet
Hi Vincci:
Thanks for reaching out. My husband, children and I are well so far. My biggest concern during this crisis is for my oldest two sons and daughter-in-law. All are out of work due to COVID 19. While they will qualify for government help it is not enough. I’m concerned for my oldest who could go under financially as he is a freelance photographer. My husband and I are retired and semi retired and do not have enough resources to help them other than a bit for groceries should they need it. We have offered house room should one or more of them not be able to make their rent. That being said we will make it through. Failure is not an option in my books. I have taught my kids that and they are creative thinkers.
Ben and I were going to reboot the Calgary Bladder Cancer Support group once more but it got put on hold because of COVID 19.
Despite the challenges, I’m grateful that we do have each other, I have a snug little home and enough to eat. So many others do not have what we have.
I’m also grateful for all those that are working to keep us safe, well and fed. I pray everyday for everyone’s safety and well being and also for this pandemic to end real soon.
It must be challenging for you to try to work with a little one at home but you will find a way. We will get through this together. Stay safe.
Thanks so much for sharing, Sue! Hoping you and your family will make it through too ❤️
Good to know that works too! I learn so much from you as well! Keep it up great post.
I really like reading through a post that can make people think. Also, many thanks for permitting me to comment!