In this new COVID-19 reality, even going for a walk can be a tense experience.
Sheltering in place and the reality of the coronavirus have upended conventional notions of self-care.
They’re challenging many of us with a health-related Catch-22.
A change of scenery, fresh air, or justmoving a little can feel necessary and life-giving.
When taking a walk is more stressful than soothing.
Once you’re outside and people are coming toward you on a sidewalk, the countdown begins.
In grocery stores, where the narrow aisles limit mobility, it’s likely that your hyper-vigilance will intensify.
What do you do or say if someone gets too close?
How to self-soothe when you’re getting stressed while outside.
I call this process the “Holding Hands” visualization.
Then, try this:
It’s normal and healthy to feel emotional while doing this.
Try this Holding Hands visualization when you’re out and you sense you’ve been triggered.
It can interrupt negative thought spirals, reduce emotional reactivity, and reorient you toward peace.
