The constant concern for loved ones, amplified family caregiving roles, changes in workplace duties, increased isolation, decreased celebrations, health issues, serious illness, financial fears, loss of normalcy, partisan politics, worry for essential workers, and the deluge of distressing daily news stories—can eventually take a toll on our wellbeing.
A devastating reality for so many during this time is that these life stressors are occurring simultaneously alongside the grief of losing loved ones. To each of you who have experienced the death of a loved one, please know that your CCFL family is holding you close in spirit and surrounding you with support, comfort, and care, even though we are apart.
These are hard times. These are heartbreaking times. Acknowledging that and accepting that we may be feeling worn and weary is okay. We have all been carrying extra-heavy physical and mental loads over the last nine months.
With the Lincoln-Lancaster County Risk Dial now in the red and cases surging here in Nebraska right before the holidays, feelings such as disappointment, fear, apathy, frustration, grief, worry, anger, sadness, and exhaustion are widespread.
These emotions are understandable. We are not superhuman. We are not immune to the challenges of this reality. We do not have to "rise above" at all times. The act of acknowledging, accepting, and processing all emotions—even the hard ones—is not weakness. It builds strength, empathy, resilience and can lead to deeper joy.
When we remain committed and grounded in this inner work of self-compassion, it allows us to navigate daily challenges and interactions from a place of shared humanity, greater kindness, generosity, and gratitude. We cannot control how others choose to navigate these circumstances. We can only decide how we will.
In these personal efforts, self-care is essential. So often, we hear the refrain to make it a priority each day. Yet even our favorite self-care practices may have fallen by the wayside amid the onslaught of tasks we all are juggling. This is an entirely normal and natural response in times of stress and crisis. When schedules are overloaded, something must give. Self-care is usually the first to go, especially among dedicated caregivers who are intent on helping others. However, its role in physical and mental wellbeing is clear. Even taking five-minute micro self-care breaks throughout the day can prove beneficial.
If you feel weary, consider pausing right now. Place a hand on your heart and close your eyes. Take five slow breathes in and out. After the fifth exhale, remain with your eyes closed and ask yourself this question, "What is one simple thing I can do in this moment that would nurture my wellbeing?"
It can be anything. The only requirement is that it is simple, doable, and feels nurturing. Once you think of something, see how it feels to do it. Try and take at least 3-5 of these wellbeing moments for yourself each day. Choose to tap into whatever supports and encourages you regularly.
As many have already noted, we began this spring at a sprint. Now we know that we are in a marathon. No matter how small, any moments that we can focus on throughout each day that nurture wellbeing are worthwhile. They are the antidote to weariness. They provide refuge, respite, and rest for the spirit. From this space, within this place, we are better able to nurture and give to others.
Please take time to take care of you. This Thanksgiving (and every day), we are so grateful for you.
Wellbeing Resources:
1. Self-Compassion in Difficult Times - with Dr. Kristin Neff: http://ow.ly/8Ty950Cpr3x
2. Practical Resilience in Difficult Times - with Dr. Chris Johnstone: http://ow.ly/CSne50CprhE
3. Managing COVID-19 stress - helpful links: http://ow.ly/fUwg50CpltW
4. Employee Assistance Program supports faculty, staff during pandemic: http://ow.ly/JtnW50CplqR