It is an understatement to say that the pandemic has taken its toll on all of us.  Everyone has been affected in some way, shape, or form, and tested our resiliency.  Turning on the news for five minutes will make you want to turn it off.  But we are strong and can get through this together, one day at a time.  I wanted to share some ideas and suggestions for simple things we can all do each day to keep our own spirits high and hopefully raise the energy of those around us.  

For my own mental wellness, I have been incorporating some easy and small things into my daily routine to improve my mood.  Doing these things consistently, even on days when it is hard, has been incredibly helpful.  Whether it is getting some fresh air and sunshine for 20-30 minutes per day, cooking a new (or old) recipe I enjoy, FaceTiming with my loved ones, going for a walk or exercising, practicing gratitude and meditation, or saying positive things to myself.  No matter how I was feeling beforehand, I always feel better afterward and the cumulative effect over time is inspiring.

Now part of what makes me feel good is feeling connected to others.  And during this time when everyone is dealing with their own struggles and possibly far away from family or friends, feeling connected is more important than ever.  And this can be as simple as saying hello to your neighbor, smiling at someone you pass by on the street, opening the door for a stranger, asking how the checkout or delivery person is doing or calling a friend or family member to catch up.  It does not take much to make someone else’s day, and in turn, it can make your day as well!

As we navigate this together in real-time, make sure to find the little things that keep you positive and energized, and help to put a smile on your face and those around you.  Compassion and kindness are free, so have a great day and week ahead, and remember to Take Command of Your Life!

The only person you can control in the world is yourself. Here are some tips to make life easier:

• Smile through your mask -you can see a smile through the mask
• Open the door for someone
• Say ‘hello’
• Practice gratitude
• Watch a silly movie
• Laugh
• Treat yourself and others with compassion and kindness.
• Build your resilience – view things as stepping-stones rather than obstacles
• Have a positive mindset
• Connect through technology if you cannot in person
• Do something that makes you feel productive

Live your best life!