“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired and success achieved.”
Hellen Keller

Staying well during times that most of us have never experienced is something that takes both awareness, intention and possibly even a bit of creativity.  While living through this worldwide pandemic, it may be tempting to remain glued to the news from what is happening locally as well as around the world.  And although keeping current to evolving information remains important, taking time for yourself and the wellbeing of your loved ones is also important.

The reasonable question that follows then is: How do we do that?  How do we remain well during times such as these?  Here are just a few ways that we might consider remaining focused on our wellbeing.

• Focus on family – As my wife and I were observing, how many more people do you see walking with their family? How many more couples do you see spending time together outdoors?  I’ve heard stories of families playing more games together, conversing more, and just connecting more in general.
• Embrace rest – It is well known that many Americans do not get enough sleep. It could even be said, that many Americans have nearly forgotten the value of rest. Rest helps us to reset, reboot and restore. Rest often gives birth to greater mental clarity and even superior creativity.
• Adopt an attitude of gratitude – It is difficult to remain anxious or worried when our focus is on gratitude. Keeping a daily gratitude journal has proven to be instrumental in combatting anxiety, depression and overall mental and emotional wellbeing.
• Keep moving – There are very few practices that keep us in a healthy frame of mind than that of regular and consistent physical activity. And even though our fitness center may not be accessible at the moment, that does not have to stop us from moving. We are entering into spring and the weather is becoming more pleasant for spending time outdoors. You might consider grabbing a friend, or collecting your dog and going for a walk, jog or even combine your walk jog with a little strength work or yoga?
• Hop into a hobby – When was the last time we took time to invest in a hobby or our favorite past time? This could be the perfect time to do that.  Painting, gardening, podcasting, photography or videography, birdwatching, wood-working, fishing.  The list is often only as short as our imagination.
• Send a letter of encouragement – How many service men and women, health care workers, law enforcement and emergency management personnel, or even small business owners, would brighten to a letter, note or word of encouragement during this time? This could be just one way to give back as they rally to do their best for the wellbeing for us all.

Greg McCann is a Health Zone staff member with certifications in Wellness Coaching, Personal Training and Yoga Instruction.