As I sit and watch the snow fall with its crisp newness, I think how beautiful and peaceful it all looks. Blanketing everything outdoors in a fresh white powder, it projects a different and lighter perspective from the browns that once were there. I looked forward to snow days as a child when days were filled with playing with friends, and a rest from school. However, growing into adulthood, winter became my least favorite season. Wintertime meant isolation and restriction from doing some of my favorite activities. Does that sound familiar with what we've experienced from quarantining due to COVID-19? As I was forced to isolate, I learned to change my mindset. I used the time to reset, slow down, and spend time discovering and experiencing new activities that uplifted me, enhancing all areas of my health.
Staying happy and healthy in quarantine and in wintertime can be challenging, However, I've now found some ways to spend my free time that create peace, joy, community and productivity. My physical health is well maintained with my daily workouts, I truly have a passion for fitness, and use it as an outlet to create a fit body and mind. Beyond my workouts, I strengthened my physical, emotional and mental health by adding some daily routines and completing some projects around the house. My nighttime walk with my husband and dog presents a therapeutic way to clear our minds, relieve stress, keep positive attitudes, enjoy fresh air and connect with each other, even if we have to bundle up in the cold! Indulging in a relaxing bubble bath every Sunday provides recovery, rest and recharging. Tapping into my creative side, I designed floral arrangements and wreaths, arranged picture collages, reorganized spaces in my home, wrote blog posts and developed an enjoyment of cooking! Some activities I once considered "chores", like writing and cooking, I realized I liked, all because I put little pressure on myself, allowing mistakes and slow progress. I've cooked recipes that didn't turn out so great and started blogs that I didn't like or wasn't in the mood to finish, but it's all ok! Knowing my family and other people in my social community may benefit from a healthy recipe or a blog post inspires me . Motivated to see the process transform from beginning to end, whether with a new recipe, sharing my thoughts or creating a beautiful thing, keeps me engaged and excited.
Another huge component of my health is my spiritual growth. Each morning, I read and listen to bible study, daily devotionals and prayers. I routinely pray, listen to christian podcasts and worship music, and write/memorize scripture. All of these practices are assets to combat negative thoughts, decrease anxiety and feel connected with my identity and God.
Focusing on creating a good balance with the four components of health (physical, mental, emotional and spiritual) will get me through quarantining, this winter season and all others too!! What's an activity you enjoy that helps with any area of your health?
Comments