It’s been 2 months since the first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in the US and somehow I’ve managed to draw joy and gratitude out of what could be perceived as a very daunting experience.  Here are some simple ways you can approach these trying times.

Start Your Day on a Positive Note with a Simple Morning Routine —

Whatever you do, please stop looking at your phone and definitely DO NOT turn on the news first thing each morning. The best way to wake up is with a simple 20 minute routine in order to to jump start your day on a positive note. Keep in mind that the first step of my suggested routine is the most important one of them all. That is, you get to open your eyes and choose to live. And I mean, REALLY choose to live your best life. Every. Single. Day. Having this thought each morning gives me all the feels I need to be in possibility for the day ahead. Next, empty your bladder to filter the toxins out of your body. Once you’ve done that and have wiped the crust out of your eyes you’re going to want to get out your tongue scraper. This often overlooked step prevents the toxins in that thin white layer of gunk on your tongue from re-entering your system. Scrape your tongue, ideally with a copper anti-microbial scraper, brush your teeth and then scrape again. Adding this practice to your morning routine will enhance your sense of taste and create a sense of gratitude for every sip of liquid or bite of food you get to enjoy that day. Not to mention it’s great for your gum health. Once finished, drink 1-2 cups of hot water, which will enhance your digestion. You’ll start to notice within a few days that the taste of water begins to change (for the better) because of the tongue scraping. Last, but not least, take 5-10 minutes to do something that generates gratitude. This can include meditation, breath work, or some form of movement, such as yoga. It can even be as simple as journaling three things you’re grateful for each day. This last step is a method of creating your reality through the way you feed your mind. There is a correlation between gratitude and joy, and adding this practice allows you to plant the seed for a great day ahead.

Set an Intention for the Day —

According to Merriam-Webster’s definition, intention is “a determination to act in a certain way.” This differs from a goal, which they define as “the end toward which effort is directed.” Simply put, your intention is a guiding principle for your way of being that keeps you focused on achieving your goals. Set an intention at the start of the day in order to raise your vibration and make the most of any situation. Remember, according to the Law of Attraction, your intentions create your reality. Therefore, keep them positive and in tune with your values. For instance, I intend to live with ease, patience and joy despite what I hear on the news. I intend to be kind, help my neighbors and inspire others to do the same. Now you try it.

Take Time to Reflect —

Think about all of the luxuries in life you may have been taking for granted prior to this global pandemic. How has this “reset” made you appreciative of these things? Once you remove all the noise from your former everyday life, can you identify what is important to you? When you take the time to think about the people and things that are most important, it might help put things into perspective for you and you may discover that the possibilities for gratitude and joy become endless. Reflecting ultimately allows you to connect with your thoughts and emotions. It can also be a great tool when creating your Vision for your life.

Go Back to Basics —

Step outside for a moment and get some fresh air. Notice with all of your senses the things you may not have noticed before. Cook with whole foods, quality ingredients and intention. Listen to upbeat music and joyfully dance around while doing so! Pick up a book to challenge your perspectives and open your mind. Improve holistic health and well-being through connection and laughter. They are, of course, said to be the best forms of medicine. Have deep conversations with the people in your life while maintaining social distancing. Whatever going back to basics means for you, take pleasure in the simple things in life.

Express Gratitude Toward Another Person —

It’s important to understand the distinction between gratitude and thankfulness. Paraphrasing from the Merriam-Webster dictionary, being grateful is a feeling of appreciation from one who receives a benefit while being thankful is a conscious act from one who receives said benefit. You can choose to express gratitude toward someone close to you or toward a complete stranger. Smiling at someone as you pass them on the street shows your appreciation for life and connection. There are three key ways you can express your gratitude: 1) through verbal acknowledgement, 2) by writing a letter of gratitude or 3) by giving a small gift. This gift doesn’t have to cost a thing. In fact, it can be as simple as cooking a meal for a friend who supported you. Consider whichever method comes easiest to you. Just remember, we never know what tomorrow will bring, so there’s no time like the present to tell someone how you feel or express what their actions mean to you.

Remember That We’re All Playing on the Same Team —

There is an old African philosophy called Ubuntu, which translates to “I am because you are.” Take a moment to think about that. It essentially means that we’re all a part of the same team. We are one. Stay connected and be of service to your community. Check in on your neighbors, friends, and family. Share your ideas and talents with others. Think about who might be missing out when you withhold your talents and stop hiding. People get to see you and receive value from whatever it is that you have to give. In today’s day and age, FaceTime, Google Duo, and Zoom are fantastic video conferencing resources to stay connected with the ones you love. So reach out, help those in need, and spread love and positivity.

Let’s band together as a community to choose gratitude over scarcity. Together, we can make the most of this trying time!