A Bit of Gratitude

Not many things build composure as quickly as gratitude. There is an immediate feeling of relief when we step back and think of the beautiful and kind things experienced during the day: the delicious, the fragrant, and the sensual. The simple act of writing down things for which we are grateful settles emotions and restores composure.

Practicing gratitude daily is a simple, inexpensive and accessible way to balance the accelerated change and ongoing crisis communication that we are all engaged in now.

After hearing the instructor of the “Biology of the Brain” seminar I attended last fall explain the process by which gratitude journaling enhanced the brain and emotions, my gratitude journaling increased from occasional entries to consistent entries 2 or 3 times a week.

Three recent entries reflect things that have helped during the coronavirus crisis: March 12 “grateful that Liza's impending leave prompted us to rearrange the office and build more capacity to work from home”; March 21, “grateful to have several parks nearby for walking and jogging”; March 27 “grateful for cooking tools (my large non stick skillet) that make meal prep easier”.

Following John O’Donohue's guidance, “Take time to celebrate the quiet miracles that seek no attention.” tell us what's in your gratitude journal these days?

Coronavirus: A bit of perspective

It's hard to be composed when the nature and volume of coronavirus related information makes it difficult to make sense of it all. Johns Hopkins University cell biologist Carolyn Machemar notes that some of the topics getting a lot of press are presented out of context

The growing number of cases being reported is especially worrisome but, as the Financial Times coronavirus tracker illustrates, the majority of people deemed to have coronavirus are surviving.

Let us keep this bit of good news in mind as we continue to weather through the storm.

Top ten countries with the most coronavirus cases as of March 25, 2020

When it comes to the coronavirus, put health power on your side.

Several people have asked: “What are your thoughts regarding the coronavirus?” Here is what I tell them.

First, it is important to keep calm and maintain composure. Anxiety and stress drain energy that is better used for boosting health in other ways.

Nutrient-rich eating is fundamental for a strong immune system. Colorful vegetables and fruits have a high percentage of vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, fiber, and other important nutrients that strengthen the body and increase resistance to illness. Consuming these in abundance is especially helpful in situations where extra protection is desired. It's also important to get sufficient rest. Prolonged fatigue drains energy and weakens immunity.

Hand washing with soap and water is more effective than hand sanitizers. Staying home when ill and avoiding exposure to others with illness is protective. Pay attention to the guidance of health officials.

Eventually we will get control of the coronavirus and experience more normality in our routines. Maintaining health power skills not only enriches our daily lives, it also enables us to successfully manage illness situations with confidence and control.

For more detailed information, watch this brief and helpful World Health Organization video on the coronavirus here.