Fear, anxiety and confusion may be taking an unhealthy grip on us. Already we were immersed in an anxious, divisive culture, and in walks the corona virus, threatening us, our loved ones and the most vulnerable among us. Yes, there’s lots to be anxious about. Here’s the good news: We can remain appropriately vigilant and prevent the spread of disease, while not letting fear and anxiety get the better of us.

Here’s 5 practices that you can use to keep yourself calm and centered:

Watch your Natural Breathing. Get in a quiet place, make a comfortable seat and focus for a few minutes on your natural breath. Slowly return to your physical space, noting any changes that may have occurred in your body-mind. You can also do this practice in the middle of work, conversations with family, anything.

Practice a restorative yoga pose. Calming our bodies actually calms our minds. Any inversions are particularly helpful in this time because they help drain the lymphatic system in addition to promoting relaxation. Try legs up the wall pose or queen’s pose (pictured here).

Reach out to friends or neighbors. Call/text/email friends or family who are also socially isolating. Reach out to neighbors, especially if they are elderly to check in and see if they need something. You can always keep a safer distance from them by talking in a doorway or outside. You do not have be alone through this!

Practice Generosity. Combat the urge to save, even hoard, things for yourself. Give a needed item to a neighbor (Toilet paper, maybe?) or give money to a favorite cause.

Practice Gratitude. At the end of each day, take a few moments to mentally note or even write down what you are grateful for. You can even kick the practice up a notch by writing thank you notes to people who you appreciate that day.

I will be offering a number of free online meditations that will keep you centered! I’ve decided to lead special Mindful Monday practices at 2 p.m. ET on FB Live on my facebook page for the foreseeable future. I am also leading a YoWo (Yoga + Worship) experience online on Thursday, March 19 at 7 p.m. ET via the Short North Church Facebook page. My friend, colleague and fellow YogiRev Amy Aspey will lead one on March 26. Like their page for details and updates. More online mindfulness plans are in the works, so this is a great time to Like my Facebook page and sign up for my emails to get the most up-to-date information.

As always, you can book an online appointment for self-care coaching or meditation/breath/yoga private sessions if you need a little extra support in this time.