We are living in difficult and uncertain circumstances right now. As humans, we are wired to connect to others. From an early age, we learn that other people can help us to find calm: babies are rocked and soothed by caregivers, toddlers run to loved ones when hurt, hugs from partners or friends leaves us feeling better. But what happens when we’re not allowed to do the very thing that brings us comfort? This is a circumstance many of us find ourselves in. COVID has not only changed our world, but it has also created an environment where we’re told to avoid contact with others-effectively removing a major coping strategy and thus compromising our well-being.
Connection allows our nervous system to find calm, notice joy, and feel safe. Connection is often thought of as seeking support from others, but this is only part of the equation (albeit an important one!). There are 4 ways we can find connection: to others, to ourselves, to spirit, and to nature. While living through COVID, it is important to practice all four types of connection so that we find moments of joy, safety, and love. We may have to get creative, but connection is possible! These are a few suggestions, but I encourage you to add personally fulfilling ideas to the list :
Others- socially distanced visits, heated garage visits where your invited guest brings their own chair and coffee, FaceTime/Zoom visits, write a text/email/letter, find an online group to join where members have similar interests (cooking, bridge, church, book club, fitness, gaming, etc.)
Self- draw/paint/sculpt, fitness, meditation, reading, woodworking, journaling, learn a new skill, anything that makes you feel good!
Spirit- this does not have to be organized religion, but it can be. Some examples- church, reading spiritual books, engaging in spiritual ritual like prayer or meditation, join an online group, yoga, practice gratitude and compassion (keep a gratitude list and practice noticing things you would normally pass by), remember moments of “awe” and let the feeling wash over you.
Nature- go outside for a walk, breathe in the crisp air, let your senses explore with you-what do you see/smell/feel/hear?, spend time with pets, seek out new places to explore around Edmonton (i.e. Elk Island Park, Clifford E.Lee Nature Sanctuary), spend time near the river.
Written by, Petra Wood
Registered Provisional Psychologist
