We are living in uncertain times. That’s for sure! We are trying to manage our concerns about the coronavirus and keep pace with day to day developments. The political climate is unsettling, the stock market is tanking, Antarctica is melting. The coldest place on this earth is melting! OK, we are in trouble. If you have been watching the news and particularly cable news, you are being inundated and “flooded” with infectious disease specialists and doctors telling you what they know so far and how to take precautions. Ironically, “flooding” is a type of behavioral therapy we use to expose patients to a fear-inducing stimulus while at the same time utilizing relaxation techniques to help lower anxiety levels. In this situation though, we are being subjected to a fear-inducing situation, but where is the relief?
It is understandable to feel concerned about how the coronavirus will impact your daily life and the impact it could have on your family and friends. We have a deep need to control our environment and at the present time, many things feel out of control with this novel virus. However, if you are feeling very anxious or stressed and having ruminating thoughts that are interfering with your daily functioning, then it’s important to address it. The other day, I emailed friends in the cable television world imploring them to have therapists and psychologists on the air who can provide strategies and tips for managing anxiety and worries around the Coronavirus.
If I was the therapist on air, I would ask viewers to explore their thought patterns and how they are thinking about the virus. We all have automatic ways of thinking about things that we never question. Are you jumping to conclusions or only focusing on the negative. If this sounds like you, I can imagine that you feel very unsettled. By slowing down our thinking, we can gain insight into why we are thinking a certain way about the situation and if we are feeling triggered, then why? It also allows us to be thoughtful and mindful in our consideration of the facts and evidence that is being presented.
On a practical level, exposure to nature and greenery may be a good antidote and will help you feel calmer and less mentally fatigued. That’s the idea behind attention restoration theory, the belief that nature can sharpen one’s ability to concentrate and focus. No wonder why planners who design urban spaces, universities and airports for instance are bringing some of the greenery indoors. I can tell you personally that it works! During a recent college visit to my son, I was moved by the calming impact of a striking 30-foot indoor grass wall. I felt energized observing the beauty of the wall and also more relaxed.
As a walk and talk therapist, I want to remind you of the powerful connection between the mind and body. Anxious feelings and worrying thoughts can negatively impact your physical health. We might have trouble eating, sleeping, feel restless, experience rapid pulse rates and more. However, research shows that even 10 minutes of walking outside helps you destress, increase mindfulness, improve brain function and heart health and more. It feels like a perfect time to get moving a bit.