However, Christmas is usually about meeting with family and friends; these last two years showed us that sometimes we have to sacrifice these moments to stay safe. On the other hand, maybe we’re in a difficult life situation, dealing with depression or anxiety, making it harder to reach out. This week I’d like to share a few thoughts about connecting.
Meeting online
However, living in a digital world has a few negative impacts on our lives that fact we can call, message each other any time is a positive one. I work with my clients online; this gives me plenty of experience. It is hard to read emotions because you just see the face or the upper body and cannot see the body posture, hand gestures. It is much harder for those like me whose vision is not perfect.
If you feel lonely, anxious, depressed – I know it is hard, sometimes extremely – but reach out. One step at a time but try to connect with someone every day.
Play online
Doing quiz nights is something the whole family could play together when far away from each other. Or playing online together (seek advice from the younger generation, they can recommend plenty of games).
Singing together
Music is a very powerful, emotionally engaging thing. Singing together connects us, but don’t feel pressured. If you like you can play an instrument, clap your hands or just be present. Engage as much as you wish!
Stay active
Grab a thermos with a nice, flavoured tea or hot chocolate and go for a walk with your friend in person or online. You can share pictures with each other about what can you see, where are you
Staying with the activity, you can attend an online yoga class or a meditation because being together is not just about talking. It is about sharing moments.
I could continue this line, but I’d like to say with these tips: allocate time for these online or personal meetings. Sharing our ups and downs and understanding that we’re not alone with our feelings is powerful. Many of us are dealing with similar challenges. We don’t need to solve everyone’s problems; just listen carefully, be present and show support and understanding. This is the biggest gift we can give to each other.
Eva Moricz Coaching 