The uncertain, unprecedented new normal

So many titles and catch-phrases to describe the state of the world, I couldnt choose just 1! I struggle to even begin with this post. As I look at the last three months of my life I cant believe how much as changed, and how significantly my path has diverged from what I had so carefully planned. My mentality has shifted significantly over this short period of time, and that is what I would like to share with you.

In three months I have gone from:

• becoming comfortable being uncomfortable in a very challenging yet extremely rewarding internship.

• carefully executing a study plan for my licensure exam (the biggest exam I have ever taken)

• living in Miami surrounded by friends

• seeing my boyfriend frequently

• looking forward to celebrating the biggest accomplishment in my life... becoming a licensed Physical Therapist.

to

• being dropped from an internship I truly loved

• uncertainty of when and If I would be able to take my exam, and my carefully planned study scheduled going out the window

• moving back in with my parents

• isolated from my friends and boyfriend

• high anxiety reactions to fear surrounding the safety of my family

• Graduation cancelled, my exam rescheduled

• A death in the family from COVID-19 complications

and now

• "Zoom" graduated, license exam passed

• actively looking for job opportunities, hopefully to help with COVID-19 deconditioning

• making moving plans

• getting a dog :)

• keeping my anxiety at bay (for the most part) and trusting that my family will keep themselves as safe as possible

I guess the point of all of this is that I know I am not alone in my emotional roller coaster ride during this time. COVID-19 has had an effect on everybody in one way or another and everyone's grief is valid and real. Its true, there is suffering beyond any of my experiences, and an extremely wide and complex scale of detrimental effects of this disease both economically and in regards to public health. It is ok to sit with the anxiety, and the fear, and the sadness, it is also ok to be an active participant in the pursuit of peace and sanity. We are all in this together and most people are just doing their best.

One coping method that has kept me sane is MOVEMENT. It has always been a proven science that movement is medicine. The body requires it, but it can be incredibly difficult mentally and physically when we are all told to stay in our homes. What I think is grossly underestimated during these times when gyms and parks are closed is the power of a simple walk outside, a yoga flow on a towel. We are so fortunate to have social media and the internet at this time. There are thousands, maybe even millions of content creators that are focused on making their creativity public for he benefit of everyone at this time. There is truly something for everyone. If you are reading this, and are feeling a little bit down I urge you to find that something, that movement type that fits YOU.

There is still plenty to worry about, but Ive found I am able to adapt (at least a little) to the uncertainly and do my best to go through this time with a positive attitude about the future. As human beings, we adapt and overcome. And thats what we will do this time, and the next, and the next.