Yes, we need to stay informed with facts about this novel virus. Yes, we need to social distance and stay home. Yes, we need to flatten the curve to keep our health care workers safe and supplied. But we also need to stay positive and mentally healthy to boost our moods and our immune systems.

Because this is a pep talk, let's remember, fear and panic can pass from person to person, like a virus, but the good news is kindness, calmness, and correct information can also be contagious.

We need to remain positive by shifting our way of thinking and consider maybe this pandemic is nature's/the universe's/God's/evolution's/whatever you believe in's way of teaching us all collectively something much larger than we could have ever known on an individual level, and that is where the silver linings come in.

Here's the thing about anxiety. We all need to tackle the anxiety paradox by understanding that what you resist persists. Avoiding anxiety backfires, so face it head-on and it will eventually diminish. Listen to hear practical strategies to deal with our stress during this uncertain time and find optimism.

It's during a crisis when we often see the best in people. By focusing on gratitude and the silver linings, we are constantly looking for the positive which helps us with joy and changes the trajectory of our day. Gratitude literally shifts ways to find wins and gives you power during your day.

This moment in time is our Great Depression experience, our World War II sacrifice, and our 'victory garden' story. When we stay positive during a negative situation, we are winning. I do believe we will emerge from this crisis stronger, more compassionate and more empathetic, not just for our family but for the world. Because laughter is great medicine, I'm reminded of a quote I saw recently about how our grandparents had to go to war and we are being asked to sit on our couch and watch Netflix. We can do this!

Remember although we have to socially distance, you are not alone and we are all in this together. Find faith in humanity and know we are resilient and intelligent beings who are putting our personal interests aside to help the better good. Take this opportunity to reset and find gratitude, and just like our earth is doing, breathe.

Wishing you love, happiness, and good mental and physical health. Take care of yourself and your families, check in on others, stay informed, stay positive and let's all flatten that curve.

SHOW NOTE LINKS:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

NAMI

NAMI's Ending the Silence Program

24 Hour Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Mikkel Bondesen- Extreme Sports/Extreme Anxiety

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