Relax, Relate, Release!: A Wellness Guide During Uncertain Times
If you would have told me this time last month, that all gatherings whether social or professional would be vehemently discouraged, that schools along the educational pipeline would be closed for an extended period of time, that majority of the workforce would be transitioned to remote operations, that our healthcare systems would be rapidly inundated, and that toilet paper, hand sanitizer and Lysol spray would be scarce, I would not have believed you. Yet here we are. We are living during the global novel coronavirus pandemic, which has threatened our way of life and spawned feelings of uncertainty, anxiousness and even fear among us all. To personally combat fear and anxiety, I have been intentional about seeking uplifting and encouraging words to foster calmness and discerned it to be an opportune time to seek to offer a few to our Ebonies as well.
If you are anything like me, you hold an appreciation for the beloved 80’s sitcom, A Different World, which chronicles students’ lived experiences at fictitious HBCU, Hillman College. On one particular episode, one of the main characters, Whitley Gilbert, visits a therapist, played by Debbie Allen, to be counseled through her current conflicts. One key piece of advice given to Whitney in that episode, which has subsequently reverberated throughout pop culture to this day, was to “Relax, Relate, and Release”. Although Whitley’s therapy session scene was comical in nature, the charge to Relax, Relate, and Release can be applicable even during trying times such as these. Each directive affords us a game plan to realign and to regain mental clarity.
RELAX
Relaxing is something that Americans do not do well, or do not have the luxury of doing, as members of a work-centered, capitalistic society. We often burn the midnight oil or work until exhaustion in an attempt to juggle our numerous obligations and get things accomplished. Some guidelines for relaxation include:
Relax expectations or timelines that don’t align with this current season. We are facing a situation that is out of our control at the moment. In the midst of dealing with that, we would be remiss if we didn't recognize the need for flexibility and welcome it. The systemic change that has accompanied this pandemic may not presently allow you to reach certain professional, financial, or academic goals within your projected timeline, and that’s ok.This pandemic will not last forever so be sure to give yourself some grace in the meantime.
Take care of yourself too. Your 24 hours does not have to be filled to the brim even if you are working in or outside of your home, homeschooling your kids, etc. Engage in whatever activities ease your mind, no matter how prolific or elementary they may seem.
RELATE
Be physically distant but don’t be socially distant. Human beings were created to be relational and this is certainly not the time to emotionally isolate. Be sure to stay in communication with those who bring light into your life, and those whom you can pour your light into. These days I am so thankful for Zoom, Houseparty, Microsoft Teams, etc. which allow me to stay connected to my loved ones.
Relate to an outside perspective. Read a book or listen to a podcast that you have put onto the backburner due to time’s sake. Reading books and listening to audiobooks and podcasts can provide the mental escape needed when intruding or negative thoughts attempt to creep in.
Plug into your Source and draw energy, strength and clarity from that relationship. My quiet time with The Creator and our daily conversations have been my saving grace in every season, but especially this season. In whatever way you express your spirituality, carving out time to do that is a necessity.
RELEASE
Release fear and anxiety. This might mean stepping away from the news or social media apps with a constant news stream that may make you anxious. This could look like adopting a mantra and rehearsing it whenever you feel your anxiety level rising. Additionally, taking the time to center mentally is extremely beneficial. Apps such as Calm and Relax Meditation bring guided meditations and mindfulness exercises to the palm of our hands and help us to release tension in every realm we may have not been aware of.
Release endorphins. I personally struggle with this one now that my extremely curious toddler is now at home with me full-time but we can all agree that getting our body moving during this time has many physical, mental, and emotional benefits.
Release your gift. With the world essentially on pause, your amended daily schedule may afford you time to work on a passion project. This may help to amplify your sense of purpose and create a positive headspace to be future oriented.
As always, we want to hear from our Ebonies!! How are you staying sane and centered during these uncertain times? Which of these guidlines could you benefit from adding to your daily or weekly schedule? Drop us a line below and we hope you and your loved ones are safe and well!
