Reconnecting with Yourself
During this strange time of self-isolation, there has been a lot of discussion about how to remain connected with friends and family. Less focus has been given to how to remain connected with oneself. That’s right—it’s possible to feel disconnected from yourself even though you might be spending all of your time in your own thoughts and feelings.
Almost everyone has experienced some kind of significant change to their typical routines and roles. Even if you’re still working, going to school, parenting, or otherwise continuing in your typical roles, the way you’re doing them has probably changed quite a lot. A big interruption to our ways of being in the world and with others can rattle our sense of self and leave us feeling lost and confused.
Here are some recommendations on how to reconnect with yourself during this time:
1. Validate your own feelings.
Everything you’re feeling is valid. Period. You might not feel like you’re “allowed” to be down, tired, sad, scared, happy, or anything else you’re experiencing…especially if you’re aware of the suffering of others. Distress isn’t a competition. Your experience is valid.
2. Accept the ways in which your roles have temporarily shifted.
Your job right now is to look after yourself and the people you care about. You don’t have to write the next best-selling novel, clean your entire home, bake everything from scratch, perfect home schooling, or do anything else to earn a gold star. You might not even feel like you’re doing your job well and that’s okay. This is not a normal time, the way you perform your roles is going to look and feel different.
3. Engage in behaviors that help you feel like yourself.
As much as is possible, do the things that make you feel like you. Do you have a hobby that is meaningful or fun for you? Perhaps re-read a favorite book or rewatch a favorite movie or TV show. You could even put on your favorite clothes even though you won’t be leaving your home.
4. Connect with the people who understand you the best.
Reach out to the people who “get” you. It may have been a while since you last spoke or you might talk to them every day—just reach out. Watch a movie together or video chat while making dinner. If you feel up to it, let them know how you’re feeling (see #1).
5. Speak with a counselor or therapist about what you’re experiencing.
Being seen and heard by a trained professional can be incredibly stabilizing, especially during this time of uncertainty. Telehealth sessions are available—contact us connect@transcendchicago.com to set up your appointment.