5 Ways to Find Calmness and Ease in Difficult Times

Feel and experience calm like being on a hammock. Photo from: Hammock Room at Sussex Ave School

By Brianna Paden-Williams, NYM Public Relations and Community Outreach

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind to say the least. The rise of coronavirus (COVID-19) in our communities around the world have forced us back into our homes to social distance or as we prefer saying, physical distancing, and reduce the spread of the virus. While times like this can be unnerving and anxiety inducing with such looming uncertainty, here are 5 ways to find calmness in your day.

1. Take an Online Yoga and/or Meditation Class

Your health and wellness routine does not have to stop, in fact here is an opportunity to kick it up. The hardest thing about a yoga class is often getting there and now it’s easy to get stared in your own home. Yoga is a powerful practice to help reduce stress, anxiety and help find peace and ease in these difficult times.

Newark Yoga Movement is offering free live online yoga classes for both kids and adults on our Facebook and Instagram. We also have recorded yoga classes available on our YouTube channel. Click here to view our online class schedule.

2. Host a Virtual Hangout with Family and Friends

Social/Physical distancing is critical to helping reduce the spread of COVID-19, however, you don’t have be completely isolated from your family and friends. Hosting a virtual video hangout is a great way to stay connected with your loved ones. Pick up the phone and call a friend or family member. Embrace the beauty of technology and our ability to stay virtually connected while learning something new.

3. Embrace the Slow Down.

“Do not be afraid of slow moments.” - Yung Pueblo from his book, Inward

There are many things out of our control, yet we hold the power of how we choose to respond and act. Take a moment to breathe even for just a minute. Slowly count to 5 as you inhale through your nose and count to 5 as you exhale through your nose. Enjoy the pause. It helps in preventing emotional reactions to situations.

Take this time at home as an opportunity to try something new like reading a new book, trying a new recipe or hobby. Many people are helping out by making masks for health care workers who never thought it was possible. Learn to do something that can help in an important time of need.

4. Take a Digital Detox.

While it’s important to stay informed of the news, we also need to be mindful of how frequently we are checking the 24-hour news cycle that could be increasing our stress and anxiety. Take a digital detox to get present and grounded.

5. Go for a Walk

Take a walk outside by yourself around your neighborhood or in the park to stay active. Be sure to keep six feet distance from others. Be grateful even when it’s rainy or chilly and the fact you can get outside for some air and connect with nature.

Follow the Newark Yoga Movement on Facebook and Instagram for daily updates on our class schedule.