As we approach the ending of what can only be described as a very unusual year, to say the very least, I look back and recognise that Covid-19 has encroached upon the world and every aspect of our lives as we knew it.
Unprecedented is a word I heard several times, along with you’re on mute and please turn your cameras off, not to mention the many RIP messages on Facebook. Hearts have been impacted and continue to be so, even as we face further restrictions having just left the 2nd lockdown.
Uncertainty is another phrase being banded around, and this features in my thoughts, what is the next step. Now that I know I do not have to be a part of the commuting rat race daily, my mind wanders off into what could be…
We have also lost superstars this year, Coby Bryant, Chad Boseman, a superhero to many and George Floyd to name a few. George was not known by the world as he went about his everyday life. He did fill our hearts however as we watched him in death. This was by far the most horrendous event I had seen to that point on social media, emotive, raising the question. ‘Am I in the 1960s or 21st century?’
How could this have happened, and will I stay silent. It feels as though much has changed over the years but little at the same time, which is distressing. This event interjecting life into the Black Lives Matter movement and saw many take to the streets even amid a pandemic.
I have also experienced moments of absolute joy, my daughter hit the milestone of 30, and celebrated legally with close friends and family. The laughter was invigorating and contagious. Life is moving so quickly.
Our nation supported Sir Tom as he strolled around his garden, raising over £30 million, reminding me of the heart and determination we have as a nation. I am sure that you have had your moments of challenge and victory, maybe more challenges than victories or more victories than challenges.
What I am confident of is that we have been on an emotional rollercoaster either way. Against our current backdrop, it reminds me of the importance of keeping our mental health in check. What do I mean by that? First, let me clarify. We all have mental health. It’s like physical health and needs tending to.
So how do we do that and stay healthy? Similar to our physical health. Let’s look at three areas you may be familiar with.
Exercise – We can train our minds to not let junk take up precious space – Gratitude is a great attitude and will often make us smile as we reflect.
Nourishment – Feed our minds good thoughts, don’t wallow in the past, or worry about the future, let’s feed our minds with, dreams and hopes, not fear.
Rest – Relax when life bites, easier said than done. Take time to be mindful, think about what you are thinking about and if those thoughts are not helping, STOP. Think ‘I can’.
As 2021 approaches let us make a conscious decision to take care of our mental health. The world may seem like a crazy place right now, but do we have to participate in that level of crazy? Choose peace.
Phil 4:7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Phil 4:13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
