“My soul finds rest in God alone, my salvation comes from Him, He alone is my rock and my salvation.” Psalm 62:1,2

Stay Healthy

In this most unusual season that we are all in, there are so many things that impact our lives and our overall well being. Big things and small things. Important things and inconsequential things. This morning I was hurrying to do something, and I accidentally deleted something from my phone. I was frustrated and upset with myself. I tried for a couple hours to retrieve it without success.  

In the big scheme of things, it wasn’t something of great importance. It was just something that was special to me. I found myself so heavy-hearted. I was upset with myself, upset with my phone, and just plain upset. I sat down to think about it and realized it was all out of perspective. It was disappointing—yes. But it wasn’t that big a deal. I realized that I’m just more vulnerable because of all that is happening with me, with Floyd, with our family and friends, and with our whole world! It’s easy for little things to feel bigger than they are.

A few days ago a friend asked for input as he worked on a mental heath plan for medical workers. I shared a few suggestions of things that I have found helpful in times past of stress and difficulty. I was reminded of them this morning again when I faced my frustration. 

* It’s okay if you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed. It doesn’t mean you’re weak or that you’re wrong. It IS a hard time. It’s okay to acknowledge that. In fact, it’s important to acknowledge it. If we try to pretend or cover it up, it will eat away at us.

* Find someone that you can talk with. A burden shared is half a burden! When I’m facing something hard and I share it with a friend, it just feels lighter. And with all our amazing apps these days, it’s easy to stay connected even when we can’t be together.

* Tears are okay. They are God’s “release valve” for us. God gave them to us as a gift He knew we’d need. When we bottle up our tears and allow them to be unshed, it just creates more pressure for us.

* When you can, smile. A smile is a powerful releaser of endorphins for us. I look for things that make me smile and laugh. There are so many jokes and clever things going around right now about what we’re facing. People are so creative. Some very sweet things, too, that just make me smile.

* Whenever you can, sit in the fresh air and sunshine. In our lockdown here in South Africa we aren’t allowed to leave our property except for buying groceries and medicine. Find something to do that is relaxing and refreshing. I love jigsaw puzzles—I just finished my second one of lockdown.

* If possible, try to find a regular exercise. It improves our mental and emotional health. I see my neighbors jogging around their yard. I walk up and down our long deck. Stretching is good; gardening; whatever works for you.

* Get sleep when you can! The body needs it to keep functioning. 

 * Prayer is so important. Taking time to talk to the Lord about what we’re facing is the best thing we can do. Because I’m alone, I just walk around talking to Him all the time! We’ve had some great conversations. He always listens. He never condemns. He always comforts me and lifts the burdens from my heart. It’s so helpful to “cast our burdens” on Him. 

* Keep things in perspective. Don’t let little things become big things unnecessarily.

God, help us stay healthy physically, emotionally, and spiritually during this season. We know You will be faithful to help us!