My polling place is a church in Wilmette. I was inspired that even the church has a sense of humor about masks. Mask wearing is here to stay. Have you experienced the panic when you pull into the grocery store parking lot and realize you don't have one? Just like my sunglasses are my mascara sometimes, you no longer need to use lipstick when you have to wear a mask. With temperatures dropping here in the Midwest, they keep you warm too.

As Covid numbers continue to climb, the inevitability that we are looking at a long few months ahead is settling in. Certainly there is plenty of good news on the horizon this week...the election and the positive news of a vaccine. Yet it appears we will have to be patient with our transition of power as well as the release and distribution of the magic injection. We need to have faith in the process and patience to allow things to unfold. I am not a religious person, but I do practice spirituality, meditation, ritual, and faith in my personal way. I also believe that our spiritual wellness has a direct correlation to our overall physical health.

The spiritual element of wellness can be the most personal piece of the puzzle when trying to keep ourselves healthy.  Generally, people like to live a life with meaning and purpose. When these goals are met, it puts harmony in one’s life, and in the others they surround themselves with.

What can you do to improve your spiritual wellness? It’s best to figure out what techniques work for you. Since spiritual wellness involves one’s values, beliefs, and purpose, it can be achieved in several ways—both physically and mentally. 

Relish in nature.  Even with decreased temperatures find the time to get outside and experience nature. Nothing restores ones balance with the world like a walk to the beach, a sunrise or sunset, or staring into the clouds. In our house we cherish our dogs as well.  Even though we have been home more than any other time in their lives, they still go absolutely crazy with happiness every single time we come home.  I think about that sometimes when I barely even lift my head when my husband returns.

Stay positive.  When you eliminate negativity and re-frame how you think of certain things and situations, you’ll notice yourself being more relaxed.

Try yoga!  I began writing this newsletter to support my livelihood as a yoga teacher. But I know firsthand the beauty and the gifts that this practice can offer. Allow your practice to help improve your spiritual wellness by reducing emotional and physical strains on your mind and body. Yoga can be practiced at all different levels. It helps lower stress, boost the immune system, and lower blood pressure as well as reduce anxiety, depression, fatigue, and insomnia. 

Let's support one another’s spirits for the coming months. In addition to the classes I offer below, I am also available for walks outside too!