Find a seat, 12 minutes, and practice this meditation on welcoming in and witnessing your own power.

It’s possible you have forgotten how powerful you are. It’s possible, that in doing and becoming so much for others, you forgot your own needs, wishes and desires. It’s possible, that in playing along, you forgot what it feels like to listen to your own heart.

Is there something your heart wants to tell you?

Sometimes I ask myself this question, and it usually happens during a particularly emotional time or outburst. I feel uncomfortable physical sensations in my body. My heart rate quickens, my breath pants, and a large, heavy lump sits patiently in my throat. This is always the obvious sign from my body - that wet, annoying, clump of something in my throat. And I remember, what is it I need to say? 

My inability to say what I need or how I feel is my own worst enemy.

There is a lot to worry about right now - loved ones, elderly parents, children home from school, job loss, our own health and well being. Your tendency might be to ignore yourself and focus all your attention on others. But as you care for others, be sure to also take care of yourself by paying attention. You can even bend your ear towards your heart and listen to what comes up. 

In moments of stress and anxiety, we need to remind our own soul that we are listening. That we still have our back. It is not time to abandon ourselves for the sake or the guise of others.

I’ve noticed that social isolation and the world impact remind me of new sobriety. I feel vulnerable and raw, afraid of the unknown, and I experience waves of emotion in a short period of time.

It turns out, the toolkit to handle this global pandemic is not unlike the toolkit we use for recovery.

First, be extra kind to yourself - even if you are not sick, act like you are. Take baths, rest, eat healthy foods, do yoga, meditate, move slowly and mindfully; don’t fill your day with tasks or added pressure. This is temporary and requires ultimate care.

Second, reward yourself - at the end of the day (or at the end of the hour) indulge in something, like tea, ice cream, a good tv show, or cozy pajamas; give yourself something to look forward to. 

Third, practice gratitude - I love seeing that people are showing more kindness and gratitude for their families and neighbors. But in addition to acknowledging grand things we are grateful for, it can be helpful to take it down a notch, and relish in the small, simple things we take for granted. Notice and be grateful for the cast iron skillet that cooked your delicious meal. Tuck your body sumptuously into your soft sheets and feel your head resting on fluffy, clean pillows. Sit underneath your warm blanket and be aware that you have a safe resting spot on your couch. When we allow ourselves to feel gratitude for the everyday, simple things in our life, we raise our vibration and become more easily grateful for all things in our life - the good, and the not so good.

Your power will get you through this. Stand strong in who you are and pay attention to what you need. You’ll make better choices, and your heart will thank you.