LENS - Healthy New Year

Mental Health Monthly

By RanDee McLain, LCSW

Healthy New Year!

As I began to write this column, I have to admit, COVID is always on my mind.

It is hard to stay positive at times when we are consistently told what we cannot do. Many of the things that are restricted are healthy for our mind and body. I.E physical workouts and social gatherings (mental connectedness).

I never thought COVID would still have such an impact on our lives in December much less going into 2022. It does not look like we will be back to ‘normal’ anytime soon.

In December most of us are thinking about the new year and resolutions we would like to set. This year I encourage you to think about these three things to incorporate or continue in your new year.

Activity

It is so important to stay physically and mentally active. We may not be able to do the same workouts as before but carving out a little time each day to be active will support a healthy body and mind. Moving your body and getting fresh air can help you stay happy and healthy.

There are still outdoor activities that are free and can be socially distanced. • Hiking • Walking • Bicycling • Swimming

If getting outside is a challenge for you at this time, there is a lot of ways to stay active while indoors. • Walking – consider pacing while on calls • Free online workout classes • Stretching • Stand up every 30 minutes

In the beginning of COVID when we were in a stay at home order, I did virtual workouts with my girlfriends. We would pick out a video and stream it in our own homes while being on zoom. We actually completed a remote Spartan race (clearly not the same). This was a great way to be both active and stay connected with my friends.

There are several benefits to staying active that include:

• Reduced stress • Maintaining a healthy weight • Boost immune system • Mental clarity

Being active is very important but also very important during this time is connectiveness.

Connected

It is important to stay connected to family and friends. This connection can bring a feeling of closeness, provide emotional support and intellectual stimulation.

A recent study showed the positive benefits of staying connected: • Improved memory/ cognitive skills • Happier • Stronger immune system • Decrease stress hormones

There are lots of ways to stay connected while maintaining all COVID safety precautions: • Video Chats (zoom, MS Teams, Facetime etc…) • Social Media • Phone calls (old school) • Letters/Cards

Grace

In 2021 ‘grace’ has been my motto. As a Christian and a girl born and raised in the south grace was always a familiar term to me.

During the season of COVID, grace has taken on a new meaning for me. I embrace it as a form of meeting people where they are at. I had to take a step back and understand that this pandemic is truly effecting people in many ways and people are really struggling.

I have learned to have grace with others when things are not done the way I expect them or the way I think they should be done. I have a whole new level of understanding and truly seeing people as individuals with distinct needs and challenges.

I have adopted grace with others …..but most importantly I have adopted grace with myself. I have found that every day does not have to be perfect. In fact-some of the best days are unplanned. I have learned to have grace with myself when I make mistakes and be more compassionate to my own situation and challenges.

As you move into 2022, find the resolution that works for you! I encourage you to stay active, Have a safe and healthy holiday - see you in

2022!

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