For most people living in the United States, daily routines started changing rapidly in the second week of March 2020–even earlier in some parts of the country. It has now become clear that the story we had wanted to believe—that we don’t need to change our routines, that a pandemic can’t reach us or cripple our economy and healthcare systems—is not true. As a result, we have shifted the way we provide care to protect our patients, staff and clinicians from unnecessary exposure, preserving our ability to continue providing essential care to those who need it.
In the coming weeks, we will share stories of how our system has changed almost overnight to provide in-person essential care safely and phone and video care when at all possible so that you can stay at home. Our team of doctors, nurse practitioners, nurse-midwives, genetic counselors and mental health therapists are showing up every day through this crisis so we can say YES to you safely and thoughtfully. Follow along as we share our story, as well as tips and ideas for keeping your and your family emotionally and physically well during this uncertain time.
To start, we’d like to share some of our favorite resources that are is easy to understand and helpful no matter where you find yourself in these uncertain times:
- Mindfulness Animated: a three-minute explanation of what mindfulness is and why it helps improve mental and physical health from AnimateEducate
- Mindful Breathing: a three-minute mindful breathing to reduce stress from Stop, Breathe & Think
- Mindfulness Meditation: a five-minute guided meditation for anxiety reduction by MindfulPeace
- Relaxation Meditation: a five-minute guided progressive relaxation for those who carry the weight of the world by Dr. Brian Weiss
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Techniques: how to change the story you are telling about your life by The Embodiment Channel
This new way of being in the world is stressful to everyone. Our systems will be forever changed when it’s over. Be kind to yourselves and your loved ones. Take the precautions recommended by the CDC and our local governments seriously. Help others when you can. We’re here when you need us.