Emotional Wellness during COVID-19

Written by Karen Mitchell, Enso’s Holistic Nutrition Coach.

In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, most Americans are sheltered in place. Keeping distance from others and limiting movements outside the home are meant to “flatten the curve”. Hand washing and wearing masks are meant to limit potential viral exposure. But what are we doing to nurture and protect our hearts, as in our emotions?

Our emotional state has gone relatively undiscussed in this pandemic. School closures, work layoffs, social isolation and being holed up day in day out alone or with loved ones is creating fear, anxiety, despondency and general feelings of sadness and malaise, and in some cases severe depression and even suicide. Emotional load can be taxing on our bodies and unmitigated stress can be an aggravating factor for many diseases and pathological conditions. It is known that people under stress are more likely to have an impaired immune system and may suffer from more frequent colds, flus and illness. 

Emotional processing can also have a profound effect on bodily processes. Our bodies respond to our thoughts, and feelings. When we’re happy, our body generally feels lighter, warmer and energetic. When we feel sadness or grief, our body generally feels heavy, lethargic and may even feel cold. Random aches and pains may also crop up. 

What can you do to be aware of and attend to emotions and stress you may be feeling and lessen their negative impact on your body?

Continue reading for beautifully outlined tips on how to take the best care of your emotional health on Karen’s blog How to Make Lemonade..