“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning how to dance in the rain.” – Vivian Greene

Within days of entering a new calendar year, we find ourselves inundated. COVID-19 infection and death rates continue to rise, unemployment rates increase, an indefinite quarantine status lingering, national US political tensions are ongoing, and if all of this wasn’t enough to digest, we all witness a horrid attack on the United States Capital. Needless to say, after only one week, 2021 already feels like a long arduous year. It is clear that the lessons learned and the resiliency built in the last year are necessary for our sanity and overall survival. To get through what appears to be an exceptional year ahead, we are prioritizing valuable advice acquired on our journey.

• If you have nothing else, you have your breath. Breathe. (Dr. Angela Grice)

• Take time to feel all the feels that come up. (Dr. Donna Oriowo)

• Support each other. Check on your neighbors and loved ones. You never know what others are going through and a call to check-in may make all the difference.

• Eat well and take vitamins. Keeping the following staples recommended by Chef Madea Allen is helpful. Healthy kitchen cabinet staples include: quality olive and coconut oil, whole grains, dried beans, spices, and root veggies (like sweet potatoes)

• Make time for sufficient exercise, as well as rest & relaxation. Don’t forget to aim for 6-8 hours of sleep daily.

• Clear your mind with meditation and journaling exercises

• Schedule consistent self-care practices and beauty routines

• Continue to social distance and wear a mask