There are a lot of things we can’t control, and during these times social distancing is one of them. Whether people follow the rules put in place by the government and local officials is not up to us. Let's talk about social distancing in a way we can control. Let’s start with social distancing from habits, items, people, and other non-essential things that don’t benefit our well-being. In this time more than ever it’s ESSENTIAL to use this time wisely. You ARE in control of the content you absorb. It’s okay to take a mental day and binge watch on your favorite reality TV show (Married to Medicine--where you at? Ms. Quad, Ms. Quad!!)
But, also try to take more time out of your day to invest in things that are informative that will add substance to your life and align with your purpose. Here's my way of social distancing from the non essentials:
My Essentials
1. My current guilty pleasures include watching Netflix (not that I’ve caught up with everything Netflix has to offer), and all of my Bravo, VH1, and TLC television content (can't forget Insecure and surprisingly BET's Twenties). But now, I’m really starting to enjoy winding down with some candles lit, curling up on the couch in my comfy but cute pajamas (not the ones your grandma wears) with a book and my favorite glass of Cabernet Sauvignon (yes she's fancy).
Starting last month, I joined a book club consisting of my mother, aunts, sister, and me. We are currently reading Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi, a #1 New York Times Bestseller. So far this book has been magical. It is the first book in the author’s trilogy. People have even dubbed this author, “The New J.K. Rowling.” It’s also been reported that Disney has picked up the book in preparation for a film. So exciting! If you guys have read this book or the others in the trilogy let me know how you liked it! 2. Unplug from social media (unless, of course, you’re catching up with the Barker on all social platforms ;;) and connect with some friends and family members who you normally wouldn’t get the chance to spend time with or talk to. I’ve been enjoying FaceTime with my brother, sister-in-law, and my now 3- month old nephew! I can’t wait to see nephew in person and hold him again when this is all over. If this moment has taught us anything, it's this: time with your loved ones is not guaranteed, so spend as much time communicating with them as possible. And my friends' group chats are usually the highlights of my day. Ya'll know who you are! Social distancing does not mean disconnecting. Continue to nurture relationships and friendships that mean the most to you.
3. Recently, I’ve been finding myself practicing daily meditation. There are so many great benefits to meditating. It's been a great source in removing negative energy, stress, and anxiety due to our current circumstances and life in general. Clearing my mind of useless thoughts of what-ifs, and "I don’t know how this will work out"; and replacing it with calm and positive energy. Take a moment out of your day to reset. Try it in the morning or anytime you are stressed out. Find your peace within your quiet place.