Whether we’re happy about it or not, most of us have
been housebound for about a month. For those of us used to an active life, this
is a derailment – an interruption in our lives, and as such, it can put us in
an emotional tailspin. I sat on my couch and did nothing but crochet and listen
to the news for two weeks straight. The constant news cycle was depressing and
frightening. Sometimes it’s hard to get out of the dark places we find ourselves
in.
But then I realized two things: 1) I’m happier when I’m
busy, and 2) I was given the gift of time.
I no longer had excuses for the
things I put off. (Cleaning does not count!)
I finally had the
time to write that story I had been putting off. That story makes me
happy – and in writing that, I can entertain myself for hours.
Get Out of That Funk!
We deal with stressors in many ways. Some of us sleep
a lot, and some of us eat. What we really need right now is to turn off that
television, get off the couch, and DO something that makes us happy. Listen to
your favorite music – Loud! (If it’s not loud, what’s the point, really?) If you’re a cook, try new dishes. Take a walk
and get some sunshine and fresh air. Take your vitamins – call a friend who
makes you laugh. Pass this time productively. Take care of yourself and
advantage of this time of rest.