Fostering Wellbeing in Times of Uncertainty
I cant think of a better time to use mind-body connection than the times we’re in right now because of the uncertainty and lack of connection. We all need to connect to something bigger and better than our current circumstances. Deqa, Program Coordinator.
A novel kind of winter blues has descended upon us as we prepare to enter an unprecedented winter. Many of us are going into the long days ahead already feeling fatigued, ill, and isolated due to the realities of COVID-19. Prioritizing wellbeing through nourishing self-care practices is essential in cultivating physical and mental resilience.
Through the Catalyst Initiative at The Minneapolis Foundation, WellShareProgram Director, Abdi Kahin and Program Coordinator Deqa Adan had the opportunity to go through Mind-Body Medicine training and recently completed the Implementation training. Deqa’s passion for this approach has extended to her Family Home Visiting Program and is eager to help expand mindfulness to other WellShare programs.
Deqa explains a phenomenon she observes happening in the communities she serves.Theres so much trauma in these communities and I think new traumas can awaken prior traumas we experience.”While there are my paths to wellbeing, Deqa stresses the importance of tuning into our internal cues and deep intentions.
Your body is a temple:
- Get adequate and regular sleep.
- Fuel your body with plenty of water, fresh fruits and vegetables, and protein.
- Get moving: whether heart pumping cardio, gentle stretching, or nature walks, regular movement gets those feel good hormones flowing and improves mood.
- Use long, deep breaths to regulate the nervous system and come back to the body.
- For Food Assistance: https://mn.gov/covid19/for-minnesotans/get-help/index.jsp
Your thoughts become your reality:
- Be here now. The past no longer exists and the future is not guaranteed. All that is required of us is to live in this moment. Many find that the practice of mediation helps achieve an inner stillness and calm in order to reduce stress. However, meditation is NOT the only way to practice mindfulness.
- Allow thoughts and emotions to come and go like passing clouds without judging or clinging. When an unpleasant thought arises, try labeling it (fear, doubt, anxiety)- this provides space for you to just observe the process.
Take your medicine:
- Make sure you are receiving the proper vitamins and nutrients to support your wellbeing.
- If you are on psychiatric medication, make sure you are taking it consistently and as prescribed. If you feel like you need mental health support or medication management, please seek help: National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255. https://namimn.org/support/resources/crisis-resources/and for Translated Resources: https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/translation/
- If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, know that you are not alone. The Twin Cities has one of the strongest recovery support networks in the country. Help is always available here.
We will get through this together!Please call our COVID-hotline if you would like resources for dealing with COVID, such as getting connected to food and housing assistance.
Somali: 612.254.7308
Spanish: 651.318.0051
Oromo: 763.312.8362