4 minute read
ASK Lisa
ASK Lisa By Lisa Sydnor
The staff of CAREGIVER Magazine is committed to connecting those in need with services and programs. If you have a question, call 405-314-7840
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Remember the old adage, “Be careful what you wish for”?
Over the years, there were many times when I wished for more time. Wouldn’t it be great to have the luxury of staying home? No meetings; no commitments; no responsibilities? To have the opportunity to just enjoy some “down” time, to bond with your family and accomplish some of the projects you started? Or, just read a book? That would be such a gift! I mean, I have often lamented my own lack of down time.
Funny how staying home is often seen as a luxury. That is, until “sheltering in place” is mandated (and you are quarantined). That luxury is now viewed as a burden. How is the down time working out for you? Have you spent more quality time with family members? Have you accomplished any of the projects on your list? Have you read a book? This quarantine is a prime example of how your choices will make all the difference in your experience. It is all in your attitude. You decide.
Is it easy? Heck, no! But how you chose to greet each day is ultimately up to you.
Depression is my worst enemy. At the first signs of depression I take immediate steps to combat the
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symptoms. I stick to a daily routine, stay active and stay busy. I am a people person. I like to talk. I don’t like staying home all the time. Those who know me know I will talk to anyone and everyone. Yes, I’ve had the honor of embarrassing my children; then my grandchildren; now, my great grandchildren, by striking up a conversation with a random stranger. It is who I am; what I do without thought. How can I connect now and in the future?
I am writing letters - which I haven’t done in years. Someone may even answer!
ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING!!
Start each day with a smile and the determination to get through this uncertain time. If you are sheltering in place alone, it can be hard to stay positive. Just remember, this too shall pass. Think of it in terms of days, not weeks. You can do anything for a day. Have a daily routine and identify projects you want to accomplish. If you are with family/friends: remember, be respectful and kind. Give yourself - and others - the benefit of the doubt when things get grumpy.
Daily routines might include: get fully dressed; call at least two people you have not connected with regularly; exercise; take a walk in the neighborhood; identify a project each day and complete it.
I added a few personal projects to my schedule: re-pot some plants; tend a small garden bed; crochet blankets (already finished two!); clean out drawers/cabinets/ closets; sew; upholster a storage box; organize my “office” space; try a few new recipes; and, complete a college credit course online. It is important for me to spend time outside; fresh air and sunshine have antiviral, immune supporting, and overall healing benefits, so I take walks in the neighborhood.
Daily routines should probably NOT include: watching non-stop news; staying in bed; lounging around in sweats or pajamas; consuming hours of non-stop TV (or cable or Netflix or YouTube).
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We can survive this and come out knowing that we made positive choices – ones that can only improve our mental and physical wellbeing. I hope to see many of you soon and catch up on how you made it through the COVID-19 Quarantine of 2020. One of the surest ways to stay healthy in times of stress is to start with your attitude!
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