Six lessons I learned from living through Covid

As we enter the “post-Covid” era, there are many lessons I have retained from my various experiences with isolation, masking, stress, anxiety, illness and life changes.  The physical and mental effects of living with fear and uncertainty are lasting and real.  My yoga practice has given me the tools to face this uncertainty with strength and equanimity.

Lesson 1:  Our shared experience around the world taught me that we are all human and that we need to take care of ourselves and of each other.  
Lesson 2:  Yoga and other self-care practices help us face challenging times.
Lesson 3: Physical and mental health are fragile and need nurturing. 
Lesson 4: The importance of respecting everyone’s individual level of comfort, the need to wear a mask or to social distance.
Lesson 5: Appreciation for what truly matters:  family, friends, love and health.
Lesson 6: Awareness of how BUSY our lives were pre-pandemic and of the benefits of stopping, turning the noise off, appreciating the little things, being still.

Despite having learned these important lessons, my life has returned to what it was pre-pandemic, with the kids’ activities in full swing, teaching yoga in person and a busy social calendar for the five members of my family.  However, I hold much more gratitude for the opportunities that I have, knowing that I have choices; I can usually stop, say no when it’s too much, seek help if I need it and take some time to myself when the need arises.  

I wish you, dear yogi, much peace as you transition to this post-Covid era.