Lowering the Temperature of Cabin Fever….

 

A Spring like none we have ever experienced.  Outside the temperatures are rising.  Inside the temperatures are rising.  We want to get out and we can’t quite yet.  What can we do about it? Here are a few things to consider:

• Be thankful for what you have and not anxious for what you do not have. Take toilet paper.  Growing up in the 1930’s TP was a luxury for many rural families.  So was indoor plumbing.  Yet my Dad has fond memories of that time, a time that extended into the 1940’s.  He was grateful for what he did have.  The Sears catalog often was their TP.  He said it wasn’t too bad until you got to the center section.  That was the cardboard order form…
• Quit watching the news 24/7. Talk about anxiety! Stay informed but don’t loop the news channels.  Remember the news is a small perspective of the big picture.  Depend more on a variety of print and online media to give balance.
• Play games offline. I am talking about board games here.  Face to face, move by move be engaged with each other.
• Play games online. Most of the classic board games and more are available online for groups.  It is a good way to connect and have fun with family and friends across the country.
• Watch a movie together. In one room. No cell phones. No distractions.  Really pay attention and enjoy the entertainment.  Distractions will dull the joy of full and focused attention to the movie in front of you.  Then discuss.
• Get outside. Even if you choose not to leave your yard get some fresh air.  Most of us can walk around the neighborhood. Do it!!
• Call a friend. Call a relative. Zoom it if you want.  Stay in touch.  Some great conversations will happen.  We all are facing this in real time in different places.  Hearing the experiences of others can be encouraging…. and sobering.
• Journal your thoughts. Don’t let this experience be lost to our faulty memories.  Write and have fun with it. How do you feel about what is going on?  What are you learning about yourself—your emotions, reactions, anger….. how are you coping? Describe the little joys you have found.  Tell of the heartaches of losing a loved one.  Articulation of the heart that travels the arm, to the fingers, to the pen or keyboard is therapeutic.  And, a record of lessons learned for the next generation.
• Plant a garden. Even if it is a few containers on your porch.  Watching seed spring to life is inspiring and brings hope for better days to come.

I love these words from a favorite author of mine:  “Hope is the power of being cheerful in circumstances which we know are desperate.”  (G.K. Chesterton-British journalist, 1874-1936)