Coronavirus and Choosing Joy

Spring is a great time to get out in the foothills

This is a wild time in our country and all over the world as we deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Even as a healthy, active person, I find myself anxiously following the news as our situation changes seemingly by the minute. School closings, restaurant closings, people without jobs, social distancing...the list is growing day by day.

In spite of the health crisis sweeping our world, I think it's important to choose how we as individuals react. We should choose to follow CDC and World Health Organization guidelines, limit close contact, and most importantly, frequently disinfect surfaces and wash our hands. I have heard people in my age group express the thought that we are overreacting to this virus, but the most important thing to remember as a healthy young person is, it's not about you. Young people with healthy immune systems may not be concerned, but their actions can impact elderly or immuno-compromised people.

I think we also have an opportunity to choose joy over panic and anxiety, which is something I'm actively trying to do each day. Many of us are sticking closer to home and this can bring both challenge and opportunity. I think the best way to channel the uncertainty is to stay productive.

Here are some ideas for ways to choose joy over the next several weeks, and suggestions for projects to keep you busy:

• Bake or cook something out of your normal repertoire. I love the recipes found on Smitten Kitchen, Real Simple, and Shutterbean. I made quiche for the first time this weekend and enjoyed experimenting with different meat/cheese/vegetable combinations. 
• Get fresh air. Take a walk around your neighborhood or venture to a nearby trailhead. Fresh air is good for soul! 
• Tackle a home project, like hanging shelves, hanging pictures, organizing (creating a sell and donate pile), etc.
• Keep your home clean and tidy-- disinfect surfaces like counter tops often, wipe down your car, door knobs in your home, etc. 
• Listen to a new podcast. Podcasts can open a whole new world of thinking, make you laugh, and give you a sense of community during this social distancing time. I listen to podcasts with the Sticher app, and some of my favorite shows include By the Book (review of self help books), Spilled Milk (comedic discussions on food), and Office Ladies (Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey from The Office breakdown every episode). Give a listen and brighten your day!
• Write a letter to a friend or family member.

Stay well, wash you hands, and choose joy!

Try making something out of the ordinary, like quiche!