Five Ways We Are Dealing with Stress

All changes in our lives -- whether good or bad -- bring on stress, and boy, have we had some changes lately! Add in the uncertainty of the economy, job loss, feelings of isolation, scarcity of supplies (those paper products!), and concern for loved ones, and it makes a perfect storm for anxiety and fear. We are purposefully making an effort to stay positive during this time. One issue we are dealing with in respect to our small business is that many of our suppliers are out of stock on some items we will need -- like lotion bottles, for example. We don't know if the supplies we have on hand will last until we can restock. Also, the retail locations where our products are sold are temporarily closed. However, we are so grateful that we have a website so customers can order online. Here's how we are handling the stress.

1. Getting Projects Done Around the House

There's a lot we can't do right now, so we are finding things we can do. Outdoor projects like cleaning out brush, trimming trees, and prepping flower beds are on our list, along with indoor projects like decluttering and organizing. We are also using this opportunity to better prepare for the summer farmers markets and make soap for the fall/Christmas season. ​

2. NOT Constantly Checking News and Social Media

We've heard it said that the news was meant to be checked, not watched. We find that we can stay informed by checking the news in the morning and in the evening. A steady diet of doom and gloom, blame and anger, and heartbreaking stories is not healthy for our family. Here's some things we do instead.

• listen to podcasts (especially helpful while doing mundane tasks)
• crank some music (need something peaceful? sassy? energetic? There's music for that!)
• read books (I know, I know, reading is out of fashion, but it's a great way to temporarily escape or find some inspiration.)
• play a game or try an art project
• go on daily walks or exercise -- a great way to pass some time and take care of ourselves.

3. Looking for the Good

In the evening, we will often name three things we're grateful for about our day before we go to bed. It can be something as simple as a conversation with a friend or a cup of hot cocoa. There's a lot of bad out there, but there's also a lot of good -- friends sewing masks for those who need them, neighbors supporting local small businesses, folks buying groceries for those who can't venture out, and the overall sense of community care and support. ​

4. Giving Ourselves Grace and Space

​Even though we may have more time, we may not have the brain-space to focus on tasks. We will have some off-days, and we are okay with that. Sometimes our souls have to do nothing. Sometimes we have potato chips and cold cereal for dinner. Sometimes we fall away from our schedules and routines. That's okay. We can get back to it. Also, having "alone time" has been something our family has done for a while. I can love someone but still need time to myself. A few moments of locking myself in my bedroom with a secret stash of chocolate can work wonders!

5. Staying Grounded

It's easy for us to get distracted and distraught by all of the craziness in this world. We try to be intentional about feeding our spirits and taking time for prayer and reflection.

​A Huge Thank You
We are especially thankful for each of you that have placed online orders with us this last month. We so very much appreciate the support you've given our business during this uncertain time. We also want to remember those who are working tirelessly in essential areas -- the medical field, retail markets, the supply chain/transportation, and public safety. Thank you for taking care of us!