Moving Forward in Challenging Times

How quickly things change…

Over the past few weeks, I have been watching situations unfold in ways I could never have imagined. It has been uncomfortable and downright scary at times. However, I am hopeful that through all of the uncertainty, we will be able to move forward. As school counselors we are often tasked with supporting our students through their challenges, and now parents and even staff members are looking to us for guidance during these unsettling times.

In times of uncertainty, helpers are often tasked with digging deep within ourselves to find the strength and courage to overcome obstacles to help anchor those around us. This is difficult when we are collectively experiencing the same crisis situation. We are in the process of creating a new normal for ourselves and our students and building the proverbial plane as we fly it. Now, more than ever, is the time to both create and model healthy self-care practices so that we can continue to help others.

Personally, understanding that life is always moving forward has been a helpful reminder. Life never stands still, and it will never go backward. One of my yoga teachers recently mentioned that to move forward, we must release the past.  We don’t need to have all the answers right now. It is a great time to work on being present and grounded, to move and take deep breaths, and to be in the moment and allow ourselves to feel.

Here are a few suggestions to actively practice self-care during a challenging time:  

1. Plan a daily exercise routine. This can be solo or family oriented.
2. If you can go outside, go outside!
3. Up your water intake.
4. Get plenty of sleep.
5. Connect and laugh with others.
6. Be kind to each other.
7. Be kind to yourself.
8. Listen to the news in manageable portions and limit social media.
9. Do something that brings you joy.
10. Create a routine to promote a healthy life/work balance.

If anyone can rise to the occasion and manage this situation effectively, it is a school counselor. We are in a phase of contraction right now and I remain hopeful that the expansion on the other end is going to create a positive shift in the world we live in. Through this pandemic, we are able to see how truly connected we all are. My hope is that everyone begins to show more compassion and empathy for one another, for ourselves and for our planet. I am so grateful to be part of this amazing profession and work with so many incredible humans. Stay safe and be well. 

Contact Erin Hurley, VSCA board member, at vscadirector2@gmail.com.