The NYTimes published an article about young adults in crisis due to Covid. It makes sense. Normally, the early 20s are a time for friends, college, pseudo or absolute independence but because of Covid, most 20 somethings I know have not been able to find a job, have been laid off if they somehow did, had to move back home, and are unable to socialize with their friends. Honestly, I'll admit that I've had little patience with the frequent reports of covert parties and gatherings because of the risk to others. The article made me see things differently My early 20's were loaded with opportunities for growth. Through trial and error, I asserted my autonomy, tested out romantic relationships, financial stability, nutrition, and time- management. There were mistakes galore but that was part of becoming an adult. If you read my last newsletter, you'll remember that it was also part of building competence during a crisis. Maybe it would help for everyone to know they're not alone. There have been reports that this pandemic is causing widespread anxiety and depression for a huge segment of the population. As a culture, we need to find healthy ways to cope. A start is to have a dialogue about it. Hence this newsletter. We are all in the same boat. Yes, there are families and couples that are together but they're struggling in the newfound togetherness. Maybe you feel like you're missing out on rites of passage. I'm sure that's crushing. If it's any consolation, your peers are missing them as well, so everyone is on equal footing. For now, they're being deferred but it's not forever. Here are some other healthy ways to cope: 1. My personal favorite is discussed by this Buddist monk. It's a seconds-long technique to calm the "monkey mind". 2. Walking is another go-to. Being outside is safe with social distancing. With that said, if you live in the city, get out from time to time if possible. Rent a Zipcar, borrow a friend's car. Go to the woods. If that's not possible, walk in a park. In Japan, there's a practice called Forest Bathing that research has found lowers blood pressure, decreases anxiety, depression and even strengthens your immune system. Forest Bathing is a fancy name for walking in the woods. Turn off your devices and immerse your mind in the landscape. 3. Yoga and meditation are great but somehow I've never gotten in the habit. Yoga bods are pretty buff so being a regular practitioner is a goal. 4. Spiral Herbal Remedies has a variety of Plant-Based, Organic options available as well. As a former Registered Nurse (for 13 years) and Trained Herbalist, I make everything myself using mostly wildcrafted, locally sourced herbs. Whatever I can't harvest myself, is sourced from a local Herb Farm. a. My biggest seller is Organic CBD. The World Health Organization considers it safe. They have weighed in and stated that it works well for anxiety, depression, pain, sleep, and more. Check out that link to my website where you'll find a link to the study. b. Organic Ashwagandha tincture is another well-studied plant that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for 4000+ years. So we know a lot about it and know that it's safe. It contains properties that calm, help with mental focus, brain fog, ADD, etc. It also contains Thyroid Stimulating Hormone and can be invigorating, but if you have hyperthyroidism, it is not advised. c. I also make some Organic Teas. The routine of making tea itself is calming, add plants with properties that are calming and you're golden. Cool, Calm and Collect Yourself, Calm the F Down and Lemon Balm, Chamomile, and Peppermint are some of my favorites. If you'd like me to make a custom blend, I'm happy to do that as well. Just pop me a line at dartny091@gmail.com. Let's keep an eye out for each other as well. If you have friends who are isolated, reach out and check-in from time to time. Human connection is a core need, let's be there for each other.
