Let's View This Time As A Time of Reflection and Connection

The threat of coronavirus has resulted in an unprecedented shutdown of normal activities. Restaurants, athletic events, concerts, movies, banquets, parties and many other aspects of everyday interactions are now unavailable. Our species is heavily programmed for social engagement, it is part of what keeps us healthy and balanced.

Instead of giving into depression and despair, why not look at this "time out" as a golden opportunity. What benefits can we get out of this time period?

1) TIME FOR REFLECTION -- Life is so frenetic that it is difficult to find time to do an internal inventory on where we are in life and where we would like to be. This is the time to find some clarity as to what your values and goals are and what more you can do to fulfill them.

2) TIME TO STRENGTHEN YOUR SPIRITUAL CONNECTION -- Whatever God or higher power that you believe in, this is certainly a time to grow closer through prayer and meditation. We are not alone or in charge.

3) TIME FOR FAMILY -- This is a golden opportunity to spend time with your significant other and children and parents and grandparents and brothers and sisters. Living through a crisis together strengthens the bonds between us. There is no limit to the fun activities that creativity can provide.

4) TIME FOR RENEWING FRIENDSHIPS -- Technology has provided novel ways to keep in touch. In addition to making phone calls, there is Skype, Zoom, text and e-mail. Catch up with your friends and share experiences and challenges.

5) TIME TO READ -- There are no limits to where your imagination can take you. You may be housebound, but the whole world and universe are open to you through reading. My book club on Facebook has grown by over 300 members in the last five days. Talk to friends and family about what you are reading. In addition to reading books, there are newspapers and magazines and plays and the New and Old Testament.

6) TIME TO WRITE -- You can journal, start a book project, outline plans for your business, write an article, write letters to friends.

7) TIME TO GET OR STAY IN SHAPE -- If you have exercise equipment at home - a stationary bike, treadmill, weight set - it is time to use them. If not, you can do push-ups, sit-ups, burpees, planks and a variety of other exercises.

8) TIME TO TAKE A WALK -- This is a good form of exercise, if you have a fitbit or watch that keeps tabs on steps, challenge yourself. Getting out in nature stimulates endorphins. And if the weather isn't cooperating, walk around the house.

9) TIME TO BINGE-WATCH MOVIES, TV SHOWS AND LISTEN TO MUSIC -- Catch up on all the shows you have been missing. Do not watch news programming for more than a few minutes at a time, it is simply repetitive and anxiety producing. Music can stimulate or calm you and bring joy. You can also sing.

10) TIME TO WORK ON HOBBIES, PLAY GAMES OR DO HOME REPAIR -- You can knit, woodwork, paint or draw, play cards or board games, or do the home improvement projects that you have been procrastinating on.

11) TIME TO CATCH UP ON SLEEP -- We are a sleep deprived society. Doctors have told me it is possible to catch up on sleep. Resurgence and rejuvenation.

This list of positive activities could go on and on. The point is, do not fall into the mental trap of "killing time", time is the one irreplaceable asset we have. View this time as an opportunity that you will look back on as a fulfilling break in the norm.