Honestly when Coronavirus started to spread last March I was...
shocked, surprised and felt A LOT of stress.
I thought, what in the world is this COVID-19 anyway?!
At first, when I heard that COVID-19 was starting to spread in Europe and in China,
I was a little bit scared that it would make its way to the United States eventually.
By following the best medical guidance, we can slow down the spread.
I saw the governor's address about COVID-19 on TV, and he really went into great depth
explaining the ins and outs of the Coronavirus.
After seeing that, I decided immediately that we would need to stay home every day.
I was terrified to go out grocery shopping and we had to be EXTREMELY careful.
This was serious business!
Oh my goodness!
Oh no, it's spreading and it could get worse.
Over time I learned that we needed to wear masks for protection,
and that it was critical to stay at home at all times.
Except for going to the dump.
The way that I reduce stress in my life is through regular exercise.
I have to!
Luckily there's a class that I found on zoom which meets three times a week.
We do stretching, light aerobics and weightlifting.
It really helps keep me sane.
Luckily we have technology today to keep us connected- like the iPhone.
I use FaceTime so I can sign with my friends
or use the video phone to chat with my friends and my family.
Have you been in touch with them yet?
- I will do that.
Thank you so much!
Also, MSAD, Massachusetts State Association of the Deaf,
has a community chat some Sundays in the morning from 10 to 11:30,
and I participate in that.
One topic of conversation that we have regularly is about coronavirus,
and it’s a wonderful way to support each other.
I like to go for a walk sometimes when I’m in the mood.
I usually walk all around the block to get some fresh air.
I really enjoy going outside to work in the garden.
I also have a workshop downstairs.
I have been working with jewelry- but I am slowly trying to retire,
so I'm doing less and less as I get older.
I also like to take walks, read books and I enjoy doing puzzles, good stuff!
Another thing that has been very helpful is ordering our groceries online through Instacart.
Their employees do the shopping for us, and deliver food directly to our house.
That has been a huge stress relief to not have to go grocery shopping.
It’s really important to be optimistic, to do the best we can, be careful, and STAY SAFE!
And remember if you go out, you must wear a mask!
Yes, we would love to know what you do to reduce stress, relax, meditate, exercise,
socialize, and keep your mind stimulated.
Please feel free to post a VLOG or comment below explaining or showing what you do.
It would be wonderful to share tips and ideas!
And remember to type #SelfCareASL with your VLOG.
It’s COLD out here! - Yeah, it’s cold!
It’s 29 degrees.
- Really?
It seems like it’s getting ready to snow.
- Let’s go inside.
Let’s go inside where it’s warm.
Bye.
Thank you!
Bye!