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Supporting Kids Through Coronavirus

Jaclyn Baker
,

Ask Your Kids What They Know

There are so many new articles and statements released on a daily basis. 

The thing is – the information we read online isn’t always accurate.

And sometimes, information can get misinterpreted along the way. 

Take some time to sit down with your children and ask them exactly what they know. That way, you can clear up any misunderstandings if any. 

Validate Their Feelings

Children are going through a lot right now. They aren’t going to school. They can’t spend time with their friends. It’s a stressful time! 

But you as a parent won’t know exactly how they feel unless you ask them.

Some of their feelings may be realistic, while others may be very exaggerated. 

Either way, all you can do right now is let them know you are there for them. 

Answer Their Questions

There is no way to know for sure how long this outbreak will last. 

As the situation evolves, it’s likely your children will have more questions and concerns. 

Remind them that you are there to answer any of their questions. 

If they are hesitant to approach you, don’t be afraid to start the conversation and ask them how they are doing. 

Learn More

Letting Go Of “Shoulds”: Yoga During Turbulent Times 

Jaclyn Baker
,

Join Amalia Treiger, yoga instructor at the Vista Wellness Center (vista-wellness.com ).

As a culture, we are used to framing our thoughts and sensations in the context of what we “should” think, or “should” feel. Yoga helps us ease the rigid grip of right and wrong, and to move into a wider range of possibilities. We wake up to more curiosity, more openness, more generosity, with ourselves and with others.  This will be a gentle practice, suitable for all levels.

Introducing Connecting During Coronavirus

Jaclyn Baker
,

For those of you who didn’t know already, we have taken our entire practice to online therapy. 

Our mission is to help people deal with loneliness, boredom, isolation and anxiety about the future. 

 Vista Counseling is starting a new online resource called Connection During Coronavirus.

Right now, we are working on ways to connect with as many people as possible during this difficult time.

Connecting During Coronavirus will include online resources, live video classes, yoga classes and much more!

You can expect to learn how to adapt to uncertainty, change and loss.

Here are a handful of strategies you can start implementing right now…

Connect With Others: 

Technology has come such a long way. We can text, call or video chat with people all over the world! Make an effort to call at least one friend a day.

Live In The Moment: 

Be present. Breathe. Appreciate the world around you. 

Take a Media Break: 

It’s important to know what’s going on in the world. But too much of anything is not healthy. Don’t be afraid to take a media break.

Dr. Scott’s Tips For Managing Stress And Anxiety In The Chaotic Times We’re Living In

Jaclyn Baker

Let’s be honest. 

Most of us don’t enjoy being bored.

Having events canceled is not a fun feeling.

Change is not always easy!

Covid-19 has brought up a lot of anxiety and stress all over the world.

The question is, how should we cope? Keep on reading to learn Dr. Scott’s tips!

Connect Via Smartphones + Video Calls

Technology truly is amazing. We have the ability to connect with people all over the world. Don’t be shy to call up an old friend and chat. You can never have enough people on your team!

Be Present

No one can see the future. We have no idea what tomorrow will bring. Focus on the here and the now. Focus on your breathing. 

Take A Media Break

Thousands upon thousands of statements are being released every single day. All of this news can be very stressful. Of course, it’s important to know what’s going on in the world. But at the same time if a certain article is bringing on anxiety or panic, don’t be afraid to step away.

Learn More

How To Stay Busy While Under Quarantine

Jaclyn Baker
,

We could all use a night in from time to time…

That is, when it’s up to us!

Mandatory quarantine or self-isolation can be very stressful and bring up a great deal of anxiety.

It’s no secret that coronavirus is all over the news. When an event or topic is brought up so often, of course it’s hard not to think about it.

Our mind can only focus on so many things at once. Keeping busy can be very therapeutic and help prevent anxiety.

Here are a few at home activities you can implement as soon as today!

Work Out At Home

Yes, your gym may be closed. But that doesn’t mean you can’t work out.

Not all workout routines require equipment. Pushups, sit ups and planks can easily be done at home. There are also plenty of YouTube tutorials out there to follow for inspiration.

Read

When you’re stuck at home, it’s easy to spend hours on end in front of the TV. 

There’s nothing wrong with a little screen time. You just have to make sure you don’t overdo it.

This is the perfect time to catch up on some reading. Take a look around your home. You might have some old books lying around that you completely forgot about!

Spend Time In The Kitchen

Love to cook? Now is the time to prepare some new recipes. You never know. You may discover a brand new favourite meal.

Learn More

Coronavirus Wellness Center Offerings

Jaclyn Baker
,

Yoga For Turbulent Times

Centering Connection ~ Easing Anxiety

Join Amalia for a 1 hour yoga class to nourish the nervous system. In times of crisis we can lean into the wisdom of our bodies, and the wisdom of traditions which have been passed down for hundreds of years. This will be a gentle, accessible practice with a focus on connecting to your inner resources of resilience and ease. All are welcome.

Watch Here

 

Letting Go Of “Shoulds” Yoga During Turbulent Times 

Join Amalia Treiger, yoga instructor at the Vista Wellness Center (vista-wellness.com ).  

As a culture, we are used to framing our thoughts and sensations in the context of what we “should” think, or “should” feel. Yoga helps us ease the rigid grip of right and wrong, and to move into a wider range of possibilities. We wake up to more curiosity, more openness, more generosity, with ourselves and with others.  This will be a gentle practice, suitable for all levels.

When: Mar 26, 2020 11:00 AM Pacific Time.

Register Here

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Ground With Sound: Yoga During Turbulent Times 

Join Amalia Treiger, yoga instructor at the Vista Wellness Center (vista-wellness.com ).  

Use sound as a tool to foster clarity and calm. This class will tap into the power of sound to profoundly soothe the nervous system and focus the mind. Be ready to make some noise!

This will be a gentle practice, suitable for all levels.

When: Apr 2, 2020 11:00 AM Pacific Time. 

Register Here

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

 Exhale Pause ~Cultivating Awe: Yoga During Turbulent Times 

Join Amalia Treiger, yoga instructor at the Vista Wellness Center (vista-wellness.com ).  

Especially in challenging times, our beings require experiences of joy, wonder, and even awe. While we face some necessary contraction as our social circles shrink and our distance keeps others safe, our innate ability to be expansive is undiminished. Join live Thursday 4/10 at 11am PST for a yoga practice to juice up your joy! This will be a gentle class, suitable for all levels.

“How did the rose ever open its heart and give to this world all it’s beauty? It felt the encouragement of light against its being. Otherwise, we all remain too frightened.” – Hafiz

When: Apr 9, 2020 11:00 AM Pacific Time.

Register Here

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

 

 

 

 

Yoga for Turbulent Times – On Demand Replay

Ryan Scott
,

Centering Connection

Easing Anxiety

Sponsored by the Vista Wellness Center

www.vista-wellness.com

 

Thank you to all that joined us for the first class in a series!  You can watch a On Demand Replay at the link below.  This will be the first in a weekly series.  More information about upcoming events can be found at www.vistapsych.com/connection .  We’ll be posting Amalia’s next class at this link shortly.  Each class is scheduled at 11am PST on Thursdays.  See you there! 

 

 

As part of Vista Counseling & Wellness Center’s no-cost “Connection During Coronavirus” series, Join Amalia for a live, free one hour yoga class to nourish the nervous system this Thursday (3/19) at 11am (PST). In times of crisis we can lean into the wisdom of our bodies, and the wisdom of traditions which have been passed down for hundreds of years. This will be a gentle, accessible practice with a focus on connecting to your inner resources of resilience and ease. All are welcome.

 

Let’s Talk Social Distancing

Jaclyn Baker
,

We all have a need for human connection.

It’s just the way our brains work. Right now we are being encouraged to stay at home and self-isolate.

Yes, staying at home is the best thing we can do right now to prevent the virus from spreading. 

However, that doesn’t mean we should completely cut off all communication. 

Stressful times can help bring people together. 

Several studies show that spending time with others during threatening situations can reduce stress. Just knowing someone else is there can be very comforting.

Thanks to social media, there are so many ways we can stay in contact with friends and family in the comfort of our own homes.

Video Chat

There are several free video chatting services out there. Talking on the phone is great, but sometimes it isn’t enough. Video chatting can help feel closer to our loved ones.

If you want to go the extra mile, you can even organize large group video chats with friends and family.

Watch Movies

We all know the best part of a movie is discussing it with friends and family.

Just because you can’t be in the same room, doesn’t mean you can’t still discuss the movie.

Call up some friends and schedule a time to watch a film virtually. You can text or video chat throughout the film and bet what will happen next!

We’re all in this together!

Learn More

Yoga for turbulent times – Register for Free Video Class

Ryan Scott
,

Centering connection

Easing anxiety

Sponsored by the Vista Wellness Center

www.vista-wellness.com

Register Here

As part of Vista Counseling & Wellness Center’s no-cost “Connection During Coronavirus” series, Join Amalia for a live, free one hour yoga class to nourish the nervous system this Thursday (3/19) at 11am (PST). In times of crisis we can lean into the wisdom of our bodies, and the wisdom of traditions which have been passed down for hundreds of years. This will be a gentle, accessible practice with a focus on connecting to your inner resources of resilience and ease. All are welcome.

You are invited to a Zoom webinar.
When: Mar 19, 2020 11:00 AM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Topic: Yoga For Turbulent Times

Register in advance for this webinar:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_31kZJ0qXQEOsaMikWemQNg

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Tips For Embracing Who You Are

Jaclyn Baker

Do you ever feel guilty over saying no? It’s more common than you think.

The thing is, time is something we never get back – so it’s important to make the most of everyday and spend our time wisely.

Now, wanting to say no is one thing. Actually going through with it is another.

Have a Script

Having a “saying no” script or plan can be very helpful.

Here are a few phrases you can use the next time you’re afraid to say no…

1) “Let me check my calendar and get back to you.”

2) “Thank you so much for thinking of me. However, I don’t think I’ll be able to attend.”

3) “Unfortunately my calendar is full. I hope you all have fun!”

Wake Up With Gratitude

The morning literally sets the tone for our entire day.

Practicing gratitude first thing in the morning can help us start the day on a positive note.

Every morning take a few minutes to name three things you are grateful for.

Yes, a few minutes is all you need. There are no rules. You can get as creative as you wish!

You can do this exercise while preparing breakfast, brushing your teeth or picking out an outfit.

Here are a few prompts to help get you started…

I am grateful for______

1) My home.

2) My eyesight.

3) A loving family.

Learn More

How To Manage Anxiety

Jaclyn Baker

Question the Story

Anxiety can often make fictional thoughts feel like facts. Remember, just because you think something doesn’t make it true.

Whenever a negative thought pops up, go ahead and question the story.

What are the odds that your fear will actually happen?

If your fear does happen, what is the worst-case scenario?

Face Your Fears

Anxiety can often prevent us from trying new things.

The thing is, the longer we avoid something, the scarier it becomes.

One of the best ways to conquer anxiety and life’s challenges is to face the situation head-on.

It won’t be easy at first. But the more you practice, the easier it will become.

Be Present

Anxiety is the fear of the unknown. And life is full of unknowns! Yes, many events can be predicted.  But there is no way to know anything for sure. And that has to be okay.

Being present is all about embracing the unknown.

Living in the moment lets us enjoy today instead of worrying about what may or may not happen tomorrow.

Learn More