Breathe

This year has been a lot. 2020 has taken on us on the wildest rides of our lives. We can't see friends or family. We're in a pandemic, there is civil unrest in the country, unemployment is skyrocketing, people are dying, we have lost really meaningful public figures, and on top of that it is an election year. Overwhelming, right? Yeah, I am there with you. Also, we are seven months into the quarantine, so the novelty has worn off. We are no longer making banana bread or whipped coffee and some of us just feel stuck.

I am here to tell you all to breathe. I know that can be hard. As someone who suffers from anxiety disorder, I understand how difficult it can be, but you can do it. We have to do what is necessary to take care of ourselves. It can be watching a movie, doing some yoga, or just taking the time to unplug from social media. You are entitled to a break. Let me write that again, YOU ARE ENTITLED TO A BREAK.

Sometimes we tend to get all wrapped up in our work from home assignments, family life, and keeping up with all the craziness that is happening in this country and throughout the world. However, during these past 7 months I find that it is imperative to take time to do what you want to do. Let me tell you, in the past seven months, I have taught online classes, worked my marketing job, done little bouts of childcare, broken up with my boyfriend, studied for and taken the LSAT all while being my household's IT person. At one point I felt like I would literally pass out. My brain was on overload because I was doing so much for others and nothing fun for myself. That’s when it hit me. I am no good to everyone else if I am no good to myself. We often repeat these mantras of self-love and self-care, but we fall short, I know I do.

So, I decided to do something about it! First, I re-downloaded Tik Tok. I know, I know, really basic but whatever. Scrolling through the For You page is hilarious and very relaxing for me. I get to see a plethora of videos that are funny, informational, and the dance talent on there is astounding. I also began working out. I ordered a new yoga mat, a jump rope, and an ab roller. I found that when I was stressed the work out would help me relax plus it was something, I was doing for myself. Last but not least I brought skates!! Now, at the beginning I couldn’t not skate at all and as of today I still cannot skate. Don’t worry I will get to it soon! I know the freshness of this quarantine has worn off and we may want our lives to get back to normal but we’re going to be inside for a bit longer than we want to be. So, find something that you love to do or want to learn to do then DO IT!

Life is hard, trust me I get it but sometimes you have to try and find the silver lining and believe that “the arc of the universe is bent towards justice.” So, I want to implore you to take a break; change up the monotony in your everyday life. Start a new hobby or go back to an old one. I know you can do it; I believe whole heartedly in your abilities. Do what feels good to you as long as it is not hurting other people. And by all means TAKE A BREATH!