|
Finding comfort
The first few weeks of social distancing, I was seeking ways to stay as close to my routine as possible. I woke up at the same time each day, ate the things I usually eat during the week, ran around the house picking up various bottles, cans, and household items trying to figure out what I could use to maintain my weight lifting practice. I went on a walk at the same time every day. I went to bed early. I read so many books.
I was doing everything I could to be okay...to manage my anxiety around the state of the world. If I just did everything right, everything the same, I could keep the impact of this situation on my mental and physical health at bay. I would get through this by being as close to normal as possible.
Routines work because they give us a sense of control over our world. They make us feel like we know what’s coming and we’re prepared to take it on. They provide stability and a feeling of being cared for. They give us something to rely on. They make us feel normal.
The acknowledgement that times are not “normal” and our concept of “normal” is forever altered has allowed me to release myself from the pressure to maintain a routine. I’m doing more things because I feel like it, and less because I “should.” I’m leaning on comfort, more than stability.
I’ve found comfort in zoom-working out with Emilie, running with my partner, opening a bottle of natural wine to mark the end of the work day, doing laundry on Sundays, opening the windows and listening to the birds, stretching, making a mess in the kitchen, calling my family, and taking mid-day naps.
Stability and routine will (hopefully) return one day, but for now, I’ll be seeking comfort above all else.
Q: What feeling are you seeking to get you through these days?
|
