". . . a brush with nature"

In these times of uncertainty, it is not unusual to experience a sense of unease, but it is important to figure out ways to fight that feeling and not allow yourself to become despondent or depressed. Although it may be difficult at times it is important to maintain a positive outlook through this unprecedented experience both for yourself and for those “sheltered in” around you.

 

Maintain a Sense of Normality

Maintaining a sense of normality is of upmost importance. Although this time of “social distancing” is anything but normal you cannot allow yourself to become paralyzed by a situation that none of us could predict. Keep a regular schedule each day and keep to a routine. For me that means that my husband and I enjoy our first cup of coffee together each morning in bed, just relaxing, talking and enjoying each other’s company. Then we get dressed, eat breakfast and start our day. Please note here the importance of the routine of getting dressed and having a plan for the day. There are still things to look forward to, achieve and accomplish each day even though the environment has been changed/limited. For me, as a professional artist, my day includes time in my studio painting, as well as marketing my work, etc. My husband often joins me in my studio in the afternoon and later we often share a walk through the woods to the mailbox. A simple, but normal thing we enjoy doing together. Later, a shared dinner, a glass of wine and great conversation with my husband and best friend. There is a routine to this, a sense of normality, that keeps us both positive during this time of uncertainty. 

 

 

Enjoy Time Spent with Those You Love

I am sure we have all wished during our very hectic lives that we could spend more “quality time” with those we care about. Here is that chance. Instead of looking at this quarantine as being a time of being “cooped up” or being trapped at home why not consider it in a positive way? Now you have time and the ability to share experiences and make memories with your loved ones. If they are not physically with you reach out by telephone or email. My husband and I cherish the time we have together. We always have. We consider each day spent together a blessing. We miss our children and grandchildren terribly. Each contact we have with them is a special treasure we hold close to our hearts. I guarantee the contact you make will brighten someone’s day. You can choose to make this time positive both for yourself and others. It’s up to you.

 

 

Try Something New. . . Enjoy Yourself 

If you were always too busy with “life” to read a novel (just for fun) or try your hand at something new . . . guess, what? Life just slowed down. Read that book, watch a television series someone told you about (maybe a comedy, then LAUGH), try a new recipe, new craft project or work in your yard or garden. The possibilities are endless. For my husband, the practice time in his music room is making him an even better guitarist than he already was. (The added bonus here is that I have a live concert almost every day. Sweet!) For me the additional time in my studio allowed me to start working on a new series of western themed paintings. I plan on submitting them to a show in the Fall, but if that doesn’t work out, who cares? I am still happy with what I have accomplished and I can always look forward to next year. This has been an extremely positive time for both of us and it can be for you, as well.

 

 

Distance Yourself from the Negativity 

Distancing yourself from all the negativity is obviously a big part of staying positive at a time like this. Since most of us are staying at home you would think this might be easy, but, of course, it is not. Any time spent watching television or on the internet exposes you to negativity. Please don’t allow yourself to be drawn into it. Instead, try to spend less time watching, listening and engaging with the pessimism of others.  Try instead any of the activities discussed previously or discover your own. 

 

Realize that this unique time of our lives will pass. We cannot say how long it will take, but it will pass. We will all learn from it and make changes. In the meantime, let’s make the best of this situation. Paint, sing, dance, SMILE . . . marvel at the first flowers of Spring and the sight of a plump robin outside the window. Appreciate the joyful parts of life and, most importantly, keep a positive attitude as we move forward. 

 

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