These days, the news does not travel. They fly. With so much happening around us, it is obvious to feel overwhelmed. We don’t need to turn on the TV to watch the news. Social media and WhatsApp are doing their job in keeping us up to date on the news. Earlier pandemic came with its package. And this package had many such things which cannot be undone or erased. Lockdown, loss of jobs, loss of family members and friends. The void that such events have created in our lives is hard to be filled. Everything is so disturbing that people are finding it hard to stay calm. So much has happened in this duration that it feels like the pandemic has become old news now.

When we are surrounded by such heartbreaking news, how can we stay calm? Is it possible? Or, if we want to be calm, how can we do that? Let me help you with that. I said “help” because this is the time when we should be helping each other. 

How to stay calm during tough times?

The situation is challenging. It is obvious to feel anxious. So, what can we do to start? Let’s begin with our breathing.

Control your breathing:

When we hold our breath, we focus on it. And calm our minds down. This simple practice immediately re-centers your mind and slows your heart rate. So, whenever you feel anxious, do this.  

1. INHALE through your nose, counting to four very slowly. Let the air fill your lungs.
2. HOLD your breath to another count of four.
3. EXHALE through your mouth to a count of four.
4. HOLD your breath again for the exact count of four.
5. Repeat step 1.

Learn to ignore the news that disturbs you:

Negativity is so powerful that it can wash away all the positive things. If you know that getting forwarded messages scare you then, convey it to your friend circle. Politely request them not to send you such messages. Learn to create that boundary.

Know about setting healthy boundaries

Find a routine that gives your relaxation:

We all have a list of things we like to do. Like painting, singing, listening to music, meditating, exercising, or yoga. Find that routine and relax your mind, body, and soul. 

Understand the situation and look for options:

When we know about it, we have to accept it. Overthinking will lead to anxiety. It is better to look for the options and steps we can take to make our life better. For example, here, in-person schools have started. Parents are concerned. But do we have any other option than to send them to school? Things that are in our hands are reminding them for masks, keeping social distancing, and other safety measures. Overanalyzing the situation is not going to make anything better. 

Take a break:

We all need a break to unwind our minds. Our mind gets tired when the same news keeps coming to us. There is a limit to which our mind can process the information. So, take a pause. It helps in reenergizing yourself.

Clean eating:

Have a healthy diet. They work as a great confidence booster. Stock up your kitchen with healthy food options for a wholesome diet instead of junk food that lowers your energy. Your new mantra: Food is fuel! 

Adequate sleep:

Eight hours of sleep isn’t realistic for most of us, you should focus on the quality of sleep (i.e., maximizing time in deep sleep). Keep your room dark, quiet, and cool.

Listen to Dr. Sudha Tallavajhula talking about sleep disorders and tips for a good sleep

Talk about it:

Whenever anything is related to our mental health, talking about it is very important. What is the use of talking, why I should trouble others- such thoughts are not correct. Whenever you feel like talking about your feelings, talk about it. Talking can work by either distracting you from your stressful thoughts or releasing some of the built-up tension by discussing it.

Want to know how top performers manage their emotions in the times of stress?

People who keep calm under pressure situations recognize that nothing lasts forever, so this shall pass too. Therefore, rather than allowing hardship to turn them into bitter people or helpless victims, they choose to use stressful circumstances to become stronger and better.