Dear Friends,

As I sit in my home practicing social distancing, I realize how hard it is for me and must be for others. I keep checking emails, news feeds and trying to focus on work tasks. My spouse is an introvert and type A. Social distancing is perfect for him. He heads to his desk and works as he does every day. So happy. You may have guessed that I am the opposite as they do tend to attract.

I wonder, how do I find my balance when it is hard to do my Chowdies right now? Most of my Chowdies involve sports and exercise with other people. All of that is cancelled right now. So, what can I do?

Here’s a few ideas that are helping me find my Chowdy (and may help you too!):

  • I have read that a schedule is good to maintain. I am not generally a list maker, but I plan to make a list of tasks that I would like to accomplish during this time. I hope that this provides structure so that I am not swirling around trying to decide what to do and checking my news feed every 5 minutes.
  • I am keeping in touch with my circle of friends and family via text, phone calls, and social media. This is so important. It makes me realize that I am not alone in this.
  • I am getting outside each day for a walk. My dog has never been happier. Lessens my anxiety. Today the sun is out… yay! And, I just learned that the spring solstice is happening 16 hours earlier this year. So, more daylight, sooner.
  • I am also trying to do the regular things that I know are good for physical and mental health: eating well, getting a good night’s sleep, and drinking water.

I am not a medical professional so I also want to provide these links from NAMI:

  1. https://www.nami.org/About-NAMI/NAMI-News/2020/NAMI-Updates-on-the-Coronavirus
  2. https://www.nami.org/getattachment/About-NAMI/NAMI-News/2020/NAMI-Updates-on-the-Coronavirus/COVID-19-Updated-Guide-1.pdf?lang=en-US

If you are in a crisis, call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255.

Be Well. Be Chowdy.

Elizabeth Parkinson
President
Chowdy Organization