How to emotionally reset after lockdown
As the world slowly emerges from months of lockdowns we can find ourselves experiencing mixed feelings. Here’s how to emotionally reset.
Lockdown has been the strangest of times.
Priorities have shifted, and what was once important matters less. On the other hand, many of the little things we take for granted we have started to appreciate in a new and profound way.
Before lockdown, going out and seeing friends was normal for many of us. Leaving the house and basic chores like visiting the supermarket was a bit of a drag, but now we crave the old ways.
One of the major things that we are collectively experiencing at this time is gratitude for the status quo. We would give anything for the normal and seemingly mundane to resume. How funny is that? We just want it to be the way it was in many ways.
It’s time to consider what you want to keep – and what to improve
But we also want change. Lockdown has shone a light on many things that were not working. Old outdated systems that refused to evolve were forced to change in a sudden jolt – and that is good.
If you are fortunate enough to still have a job, the whole landscape of your work-life may have changed. People who commuted pre-lockdown no longer want to. This is a great time to shift into a new career, especially if you have taken this time to re-skill.
The stagnation is over, things have changed, out of adversity comes opportunity. People are ready for change, they have had time to consider what is not working. What can be improved.
It’s a good opportunity to work on your gratitude
As we transition out of lockdown, it’s a good opportunity to work on your gratitude. What did you take for granted which was actually a privilege? Focus on how fortunate you are to have the things you have. Many have died globally, but you made it. Celebrate life.
Notice who you missed and who you thought you would miss but didn’t. Spend time with the ones you missed and maybe devote less time to those you realise you have less in common with than you thought.
This can be a great awakening
The new normal can be better than the old way; 2020 doesn’t have to be a bad year. It can be ‘The Great Awakening’ – awakening to who you really are and what is important to you.
We get so stuck in routine and being busy we sometimes can’t see the wood for the trees. This has been a wonderful time to reflect and learn about ourselves. To be the change we wish to see in the world. Change what isn’t working for you, hopefully you have had the time and space to ascertain what that truly is.
Have you done more of a forgotten joy in lockdown? Maybe you have had the chance to work out online? Fitness classes have been abundant. Did you do more yoga? Do you feel better and stronger? If so, keep with it.
We really have had the chance to audit what is working and what is not, where we may have not had the time and space to see the wood from the trees before.
Make sure YOUR new normal is an upgrade
This really has been a chance to get to know yourself and your family at a deeper level. To connect, play games, spending time with kids.
Maybe you were extremely busy, with social engagements, classes, kids clubs etc, every minute of your day assigned to one thing or another. How has the slow down felt? Maybe a slower pace of life might suit you more?
We have a concept in our society that being busy is optimal, but really balance is needed. Meditation and thoughtfulness. Being busy often drops us out of the present moment.
Are you more present now? Are you happier in yourself now? If so, stick with it. We don’t need to rush, as we once did.
Remember to keep smelling the roses as we ease into the new normal. Just make sure the new normal is an upgrade!
Antonia Harman is a renowned emotional trauma expert and healer. Head to Divine Empowerment to learn more about how to emotionally heal with Antonia.
Photo by Zalmen Pollak
