It’s been almost a month since we returned from LA and things were rapidly changing in our world. It’s been over three weeks since we’ve been on socially distancing status, (non)affectionately known as quarantine.
Checking in with my body– This begins while I’m still lying in bed and was a practice I started prior to this. How did I sleep? Are my allergies flaring up (lately big time, reminding me spring is here)? How does my body feel? But I continue it throughout the day and respond as needed. Do I need to go for a run? Are my legs sore and need to be inverted today? Am I holding tension anywhere? Today I need yoga, I can feel it so I will carve out that time for myself. Maybe outside.
Creating order in my day– I’m a list girl, you know? Lately I’ve been creating a tiny daily to-do list, separate from my giant, on-going to-do list that sits on my desk. It includes mine and my girls “schedule” and it’s a very modest, doable list. It’s a way I have of feeling like I’m accomplishing things (I am) while also leaving plenty of room for impromptu and crucial creative and connection times like art projects, afternoon outdoor time, cooking meals, writing, play.
Awareness of everyone’s needs– I mean I think as women, this is our whole jam. Figuring out what the people around us need. My work space is in the middle of the living room. So I get up early so I can tap away at my laptop or write in my journal. I move to feed and let the dog out, to respond when Ramey yells “Mommy!” from her room. When everyone’s awake, I adjust and either stop my work or move to a quiet place or put my earbuds in. The above two lists help me remember what I need during this turbulent time.
Choices choices choices– The opposite of trauma is choice. This varies from person to person, from family to family. Where do you have choices in your day today? Maybe there is very little because of your work demands or your family’s needs. Maybe there’s so much choice it feels overwhelming. What will you choose today?
Holding on and Letting Go– I’m only holding onto the things that are either 1. Absolutely necessary and/or 2. The things that bring me joy, peace, inspiration. I’m letting go of anything that does not serve me. Thoughts, old patterns of behavior, expectations, control, other people’s behavior, comparing myself to other parents/other families. We’re doing what’s best for our family with the skills and tools and resources that are accessible to us right now.
Flexing Those Resiliency Muscles– This is where we’re at. Each of us in our own way, on our own timeline. Just because we have days where we struggle doesn’t mean we’re not doing okay. Or maybe we’re not okay and that, also is okay. But know there is support out there for you, within you and and around you. Let’s dig in to find it, shall we?
Jami's Journal 