Hello from Canada! I don’t know about you, but I feel like I am now in some sort of apocalypse type movie. Yesterday we found out that our Prime Minister’s wife now has the coronavirus and that he himself is self isolating. People are buying enough toilet paper to build an addition to their house. And then you have the best and brightest of capitalism reselling and price gouging things like face masks, hand sanitizer and yes toilet paper, preventing those who are immunocomprised or elderly from getting necessary items.

This accompanied with data from the virus has people anxious and worried, and rightfully so. Social distancing is the new buzz word to protect one’s self and the vulnerable.

The reality is that as individuals we can’t do much to tackle the virus as a whole, but we each have a unique opportunity to be a helpful drop in the bucket that is part of the solution and not the problem. I have compiled a few ideas and tips that you may or may not find helpful.

Be Prepared, Not Scared

I think it is important for people to have a reasonable supply of food and necessities for their family. I would suggest the following items – cold and flu meds – just in case, cleaning supplies, soap, enough food for a few weeks, maybe some new books, games or music or some other sort of diversion in case you need to self isolate, toiletries and a couple packs of toilet paper.

Please for heavens sake – DO NOT PANIC buy! Keep in mind that there are vulnerable populations who also need supplies but are only able to finance their purchases from week to week.

Your Body, Your Temple

At times like this, we are reminded about the imperanence of human life and the fact that we only have one body, so take care of it. Now is a great time to practice a little more self care for that body.

Make sure you are getting enough sleep, consider taking a multivitamin supplement, try to eat healthy and find ways to get in some physical activity. You don’t have to give up your regular gym routines. Youtube is a wonderful playground of exercise activities. There are many great workout videos that require no equipment.

It’s all about perspective. The stronger and healthier you are, the less likely there will be a siginificant impact on you, even if you get the corona virus.

Needless to say, wash your hands! I have taken to making up lyrics to this song below, adding in B-B-B-Byyyye Corona as I watch the suds (and any germs) circle the drain!

Mind Matters

For people who struggle with mental health issues like anxiety, depression or PTSD this can be a particularly challenging time and we all have our own ways of dealing with things. Here are a few suggestions that help me as I go through many different feelings and emotions regarding this situation.

1. Be as prepared as you can (see the first two tips above).
2. Ensure that you have some virtual social supports, people you can call or chat with online.
3. Don’t be afraid to talk about what you are feeling. You are not alone, it is likely others are feeling similar things and sometimes the act of speaking your fears can make them less.
4. When accessing information about the coronavirus ensure it is accurate and fact check if necessary.
5. Find ways to keep busy. Read a new book(s), cuddle with pets (dogs and cats are immune by the way), take up a new hobby you have been putting off or focus on an existing one. If you have the technology consider online social gatherings. Binge watch Netflix!
6. Take time to practise self care, take a nice warm bath, light some candles, meditate, and get in some physical activity. Now is a good time to release happy exercise endorphins.
7. Try not to read some of the atrocious comments on social media. It’s not okay to wish illness on anyone and reading such comments can’t be great for one’s mental health.
8. And don’t forget to laugh when you can!

Be Kind

If you are able to help people who are self isolating, the elderly or vulnerable now is a great time to do so. Ask an elderly neighbour if you can pick them up anything at the store if you are going. Call and check in on those who are vulnerable (virtually). Don’t panic buy and share with others in need if you have an abundance of something.

If you see someone struggling online or in real life with dealing with this virus help where you can. A smile (from a distance) or a kind comment can alter the course of someone’s day.

Ultimately it is in situations like this that we decide what kind of world we want to live in. I am choosing a kinder one. One that is kind to myself and those around me. I hope you will choose this world too.

If you want to panic buy something, I have plenty of books in stock of ‘A Potter’s Dream: Myths & Legends’. It’s a nice read and you can buy as many as you like and the best news is everyone will still have toilet paper! For the duration of the pandemic, I am offering it at a discounted price of $23/US, inclusive of delivery in Canada and the US. It’s also cheaper then what some people reselling toilet paper are charging, but don’t get any ideas!

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