Hiking in the Columbia Gorge
During this time of uncertainty I encourage each and every one of you to Focus on Can VS Can’t. With the every changing information we are all receiving it is natural to look at all the things we are being told we are not allowed to do. Many states are moving to “Sheltering at home” which is a new concept for us all and does require a shift in mindset, action and way of being for most of us. I have overheard and spoken to many people who have the idea that this means people are not allowed to leave their homes.
Sheltering at home and social distancing are not the same as being quarantined. Yes, movement is restricted but you can still go outside. It just means we all have to be mindful about space in the outdoors (which is a lot easier than being in a gym, store or even grocery store). While the list may seem daunting in regards to all the new restrictions I encourage you to explore what you can do and to get doing!
- Check out nearby parks
- Ride a bike (if your area is bike friendly) or ride/rent an electric bike!
- Walk places instead of driving
- Are there hikes near your town/home?
- Try Forest Bathing
In addition, if your in an area or in a situation where leaving your home is difficult there are now lots of online options that provide inexpensive and even free fitness options. Youtube has some great choices. I subscribe to Five Parks Yoga at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrtTMWDx4u1dVKMpXNhjwpA. While there is no charge for this site Erin does ask for a donation and fare enough as she is providing an amazing alternative to studio classes.
There are also online fitness memberships such as https://www.energyup.co/ This site has a fee and provides more than fitness workouts. If your looking for healthy eating support and the accountability of a virtual community this option and ones like it might be powerful to explore during this time.
Healthy eating is taking on a new meaning right now as well. While we are not partaking in sit down dining take out is still an option. This has it’s positives and negatives. Rather than spending all the money on take out food why not explore cooking and simple, easy to prepare healthy cooking. Again the internet has amazing access to all kinds of eating preferences and easy to follow directions.
There are also companies that will deliver healthy meals which you prepare. These are not inexpensive but will be about the cost of a take out meal from a nicer restaurant. I have used this company https://www.hellofresh.com/ and enjoyed the step by step directions for the meals. Portions are small but that is not a bad thing. So to recap:
- Considering buying groceries and cooking from your kitchen
- Try a meal delivery service and maybe one that you prepare
- Consider healthy take out options and smaller portion sizes
Lastly, if you do not have a wellness practice or yours needs some love this could be the perfect time to up your game. By a wellness practice I am referring to things that reduce your stress, create a sense of calm and well being, offer a feeling of control and peace. Yale is offering a free course on the Science of Well being that you may want to explore https://www.coursera.org/learn/the-science-of-well-being
Here are a few more suggestions:
- Mediation-start small if this is new (5 minutes) Consider a guided mediation at first. YOutube has many options and they are free
- Breathing exercises
- Yoga
- Music with a brain wave frequency of 40Hz
- Forest Bathing(again)
- Relaxing walks
Everything I am suggesting can be done with social distancing, alone and/or in your home. It is my goal to support you fully during this time of change and uncertainty while helping you support a healthy body, mind and spirit.
In support of you being able to live a life that feels free, powerful and awake.
Laurie Bagley
