So many things have changed. Where we can go and when. How many of us can go inside a place at one time. Whether we can visit our older loved ones. We’re doing so many things differently as big groups and small family units.
Let’s face it – our sense of normalcy is shot. Heck, I’m still looking for disinfectant wipes. I’m tired of being flexible. I don’t like forced change. I’m not very good at it. I like for changes to be my idea. I get why all this is happening, though. I’m (mostly) happy to be compliant to keep my family and community safe.
There are a few things in my life that I can’t flex. Not because I don’t like to change them, but because they shouldn’t be changed. Things like healthy habits I have for my Self Care. Time that I devote to the care of my body, mind, and spirit shouldn’t diminish because of social distancing and quarantine.
I’m learning a hard lesson in flexing that Self Care in a healthy way. I didn’t get there overnight. The week I spent on the couch with Netflix and cookie dough taught me (and my GI system) about the serious pitfalls of letting my Self Care completely lapse.
So what am I doing right? I’m still getting up early, a habit I had before all the changes of the pandemic hit. I still read the news, limiting my consumption to about 30 minutes of scanning the news and podcasts. Other than Cookie Dough/Netflix week, my nutrition has been on track. (Ok, there have been some unhealthy snacks. Don’t judge.)
A huge habit that anchors my Self Care is my workout. I usually work out six days a week. When the gym closed, I started going to a local walking trail. Since I like walking way better than the torture of the elliptical or a stairstepper machine, I’m fine with that change.
But what about strength training and weight lifting? My doctor recommended those for me a few years ago to prevent bone loss. How about stretching for my back, yoga for focus and centering?
Solution – I gathered up all the miscellaneous workout tools I have. Hand weights, bands, medicine balls, yoga mat. I put it all in the trunk of my car and hauled it to the trail. When the walk is finished, I round out my workout.
My workout partner has been on board with the changes. The group has expanded to include a police officer we know from the gym and an end of life doula who are both dedicated to taking good care of themselves. It’s a small accountability group. We listen to each other’s stories and offer encouragement. There’s a little trash talking and some friendly competition. We take care of each other.
It’s done wonders for me. It keeps me going. I haven’t let the pandemic stop my workouts. I’m learning to be flexible. I’m not saying I like it but I know it’s good for me.
My Self Care will always be a work in progress. Change is essential as my health needs change. This time my Self Care evolved because it was forced to. I might even keep some of the changes going after the gym opens.
So how flexible is your Self Care? Have you been able to adapt? Whether you’re homeschooling your kids or working remotely, how are you morphing your healthy Self Care habits? I hope this time finds you changing with the season.
No matter who you are, or where you are in your hospice journey, you are The Heart of Hospice.