I’ve spent a good amount of time writing and rewriting this message, wanting to hit the right note between honesty and positivity.
Working in the new age/self-help world is interesting at this time because it’s our job to inspire and be a model of positivity for others. But I also want to be honest with you, as I have been going through a range of emotions just as I’m sure you have.
Acting like everything is normal obviously doesn’t make sense. Asking ‘how are you’ also feels silly because I have a fairly good idea of how many of us are feeling. We are trying to do our best while feeling a whole range of emotions.
And while unchecked fear is not a healthy state to be in, I also think it’s important to honestly acknowledge how we are feeling. For me, ignoring an emotion only makes it bigger. I’ve noticed that in the midst of all this, each day will have its highs and lows.
And that’s okay.
We are all going through this moment in history at the same time, and there is no right or wrong way to deal with the feelings that accompany a global pandemic.
David and I are currently in Japan for our 10th work trip. Circumstances have been changing so rapidly and we left our home in California before things escalated to a lock down. We love Japan and our many friends here; we really think of it as a second home.
We made several adjustments to my work schedule in the interest of safety. My intuitive readings and coaching appointments were moved to Zoom, so that I could still connect with people from our apartment.
My large evening talk was moved to Zoom, while the 20 or so people in the room with me wore masks and kept their distance with staggered seating. Different times call for different measures.
Although I was a little apprehensive of how a zoom talk would go, it actually was really fun! I did readings for some participants watching from home, and it was great to be able to connect with everyone remotely.
Just because many of us are socially isolating does not mean that we have to be emotionally isolated. It’s been inspiring to see people reach out to one another and stay connected in various ways.
Many mornings we wake up to loving texts from family and friends checking on us. Everyone must make the best decision possible for their situation, and although things may change, our current plan is to stay here. For now we are taking it one day at a time.
What I can tell you is how fascinating the energy of self-care has been for us. Exploring new ways to find our center is a creative endeavor that evolves on a daily basis.
In this kind of climate, I was at first easily sucked into the abyss of nonstop media and news. It almost seemed like a (misguided) form of self-care, as staying informed is a way to at least feel some control over a situation. But as we’re all learning, ingesting constant news is not good for one’s stress. It quickly became imperative to limit it, so now I try to check the news once daily and leave it at that.
Here are a few things that we have been doing to help soothe and elevate our energy. This is by no means a comprehensive list, nor does it address the safety precautions that we should all be following. It’s just what is helping emotionally right now.
1. I love watching nature and landscape videos on Youtube. If you are having trouble meditating then this is a great alternative to finding stillness. If you are indoors for long periods of time then it can be truly calming and almost like a meditation in itself. There is something so peaceful of having the sound of waves crashing into the shore while we read, cook or just zone out for awhile. I’ve added some clickable links to give you an idea of what I mean:
• Autumn River
• Snowfall & Icy River
• Ocean Waves
• Waterfall
2. Expressions of love have become more frequent and verbalized throughout the day. We do this at home and also with loved ones who live around the world. Text/call friends daily. Tell the people you care about that you love them, clearly and honestly. Let them know that you are thinking of them and send positive energy in their direction.
3. Depending on where you live, your access to the outdoors and fresh air may vary. My sister in Dallas said that her neighbors all go out to their front yards at 5:00pm and chat each other at a distance to connect as a community. Our apartment here has a small balcony with a blooming Sakura tree that waves in the wind. Whether you open a window, take the dog for a walk or something else, there are many responsible ways to make sure you’re inviting some fresh air into your day.
4. Lastly, I love trying finding the light in every situation and this is no different. The main thing I marvel at are the dramatic changes in the environment that are being reported in the news. The reduction in air travel, cars exhaust and a collective pause has given our sweet mother earth the chance to rest.
Finally, I just want to remind you that this too shall pass.
Human beings are incredibly resilient.
Nothing is permanent, so please have faith and hold on.
I’ll be checking in now and then, but please know I’m thinking of you.
Much Love,
52 Responses
Thank you Dougall for taking time to reach out. I always find your beautiful thoughts and words create a feeling of calm and provide grounding. It’s been an interesting time of reflection and strangely enough I truly feel a huge shift happening not only globally but from within. My intuition is reminding me daily that everything is going to be ok and actually even better than before…which was pretty good to begin with:). Having the ability to receive messages from wonderful people like you helps to confirm there is so much positivity and love in this world. Thank you Dougall…keep up your incredible work my friend :))) You are truly making a difference in the lives of many!
Thank you so much Lori, I really appreciate it! And I agree, there is a major shift happening. I know it’s challenging to keep that in mind when we’re in the middle of it, but just hang on and things will become clearer soon.
Thank you Dougall for your uplifting words. I live alone and was feeling down. I feel much brighter now.
Safe travels to you and David.
Thanks for your comment Madelyn, I know it is challenging to be alone right now. Just please remember that this is temporary, and you are so much stronger than you realize! Sending you lots of love.
Thank you Dougall – I also absolutely love the idea of watching landscape and nature Videos on Youtube!!!
With Gratitude and Hope,
Elisa
Thanks Elisa!
What courses are you giving in Japan? No language problem? When you write readings ..are you reading people’s auras? I’m interested in what you do as you’re always loving and light filled.
Thank you for your honesty. It made me so angry to get on social media to see the same worn out phrases and everyone’s positivity made me more angry. It seems like everyone is happy, having a party or a staycation. I lost it and went right over the edge with rage. One friend wrote to me in pm that she saw on a State website Governor update what horrific thing I said. I told her I won’t apologize for my grief and I am a human being with human emotions. Being judged right or wrong is another human action I can live without.
Be safe and stay well!
Lots of love to you and thanks again for being authentic.
Thank you for your beautiful words.
Thank you Debra, sending you lots of love!
Thanks Dougall for this article, sooo would love to be in Japan now:) I also love this place and feel so good there. All the best!
Thank you Malgorzata, wishing you all the best as well!
Stay healthy and thank you for the inspiration. I do wish you were here in the US and hope you are able to return sooner than later…despite our orange “president.”
Sending love from Northern Colorado.
Thank you Julie!
Thankyou Dougall
Beautifully writen I can feel your heart! You & David stay safe sending you Love , Light & Giant Air Hugs❤️🙏🌟
Thanks so much Tara, sending you lots of love right back!
its nice to know
You are a ray of sunshine, Dougall! Thank you for your much needed clarity, sensibility and heartfelt reassurance. Stay safe & healthy – you have so many gifts to share.
Thank you Angela, I really appreciate the kind words! Sending you so much love.
Hi Dougall & David, glad hear you’re doing well in Japan; wondered if that’s where you might be, when I didn’t hear back to phone message I’d left Monday (no worries, it’ll wait! 🙂
With northern CA going into 2nd week of shelter-at-home, I’ve been doing amazingly well, as I have been since your New Years program at 1440!
Thanks so much Nancy, I’m glad to hear you’re doing well!
Hi David,
Out of my zillion emails that have stacked up, I opened yours with great anticipation because I knew you would be sending a balanced, yet uplifting message. Thank you so much for your lovely words and for being you! Looking forward to hearing more messages from you as you are able.
Thank you so much Leslie, your words mean the world to me!
Dougall and David, there are no words that can express my sincere thanks and gratitude for your message and positive energy during this indescribable time. I am on MSNBC lockdown……lol for my own health and well being. As an RN in a hospital setting I need to stay calm and focused. I am checking the news once a day and that is it! It has made an amazing difference! I say thank you every day for my cup of coffee and hearing the birds singing…….it is living in the moment… humbling but true! Thank you for your service…..it is Heart felt……stay well and safe.
Hi Susan, thank you so much for your service as an RN! I already felt that nurses are angels on earth after seeing them support my mom through her passing earlier this year, and now they are my heroes as well! Please know that you are deeply appreciated.
Hi Dougall
Thank you very much for your wonderful message and nice music!
I try to do my best and peace of mind.
I pray for you and your family.
Hi Dougall & David,Thank you very much for your wonderful message and music of YouTube.
I will try to do my best and peace of mind.
I pray for you and your family!
Have a lovely day!
Thank you for the comment Rie, sending you peace, love and safety!
Thank you so much for your words of hope and love for all. It feels so good to see people pulling together and we will all come out better on the other side of this. There really is so much love everywhere.
Thank you Susan! I completely agree, difficult situations can also unify and bring out the best in us.
Thank you Dougall. Los Angeles is especially scary right now! I am glad you and David are safe.
I am having a hard time wrapping my head around what feels like a nightmare. I will try the nature links for some mindfulness…sending you guys so much love!
Thanks for your comment Wendy, and I know what you mean. It is absolutely okay to have and acknowledge those feelings. My hope is that you allow them to pass through, and also allow yourself to have moments of peace and calmness where you find them. Sending you lots of love right back!
Thank you for your Love and Thoughtfulness.
I appreciate it very much.
Sending Love and Gratefulness in return.
Blessings to you both,
M
Thanks so much for your kind words Marilyn!
Thank you for your warm and sensible words. I agree that limiting news is vital for our wellbeing. The sites you have identified are so helpful to those without a chance to go out into nature or even see it. The Earth is having a well deserved rest, let us hope that we can learn to value her more as a result of this extraordinary time. As you say, this will pass but the shift in energy that so many of us feel is happening may well allow us to step out into a very different, healthier and happier world. Let’s hope so. Many blessings to you both and to all those reading your words.
Thank you so much Shana, I appreciate your kind and thoughtful feedback! Sending you many blessings and lots of love.
Thank you Dougall for your heartfelt inspiring words. You are always a breath of fresh air. Even to this day I so look forward to your show on Hayhouse radio(replays). Your spirit of kindness and love just radiates out from you.
Please take care while you and David are in Japan.
Sending much love your way. 😘
Your words fill my heart with joy! Thank you so much Ann, sending you love as well.
Thank you Dougall for your beautiful and inspiring message. Like you, I am keeping myself between honesty and positivity. In order to keep myself mentally and physically healthy, I am adding extra self-care to my routine such as meditation, dancing, listening to calm and fun music, watching cooking and decorating shows, and going for safe walks. One thing I notice is people around the world have been extra kind. At the end, this situation is happening to all of us and we are all pulling together. You and David take care of yourselves. Be well! Sending you much love from Los Angeles, California.
Thank you so much Elena, I loved your message and all of your great self-care ideas! And I agree, there is a big, inspiring boost of kindness happening right now.
Thank you for your soothing message. Keeping you and David in my prayers for continued well being and smooth travels home when possible. In the meantime, way to rally in your business and roll with it.
Intended to see you in Boone, NC this May… Plans are a moving target at this moment. It’s alright. May harmony be restored soon…
🙏~Dawn Q
Hi Dawn, thank you so much for your comment! I know what you mean about plans, it’s important to take one day at a time and be flexible. I’d love to see you in Boone if possible, and if it’s meant to be then it will happen.
SO good to read your blog post. I’ve been looking for it!! Take care of you and David. Xx Baba
Thank you so much Baba, seeing your comment made me smile!
Thank you for the love, light and inspiration. Stay safe, love love love you.
Thank you for your kind words and for your honesty. I’m feeling positive and negative emotions and is good to know that it’s ok to feel that way. Sending you love and peace
It’s absolutely okay Mariel! Sending you lots of love right back!
Hi Dougall, reading your post was like a breath of fresh air, thank you so much for sharing so honestly with us, I really love and admire that about you. I’d love to share something with you and your beautiful followers if I may.
Something that I’ve been doing daily, starting this week, is joining an international group of “soul partners” to dance via Facebook Live, at the same time each day, just for 20 minutes. It has been so invigorating and inspiring, and our way of being in this together. It’s a wonderful way to feel connected, uplifted, and fit! I just wanted to recommend that idea if people feel isolated and would like to reach out and have some fun like this.
On behalf of LA, we miss you and, entirely understand your staying in Japan for now, how blessed is everyone for that! Take good care, sending much love and light.
Thanks so much for the kind words Diana, and I love the idea of a Facebook dance party! We usually end up dancing around while we cook meals but that sounds really fun! Is “Soul Partners” the name of the group? I’d love to check it out.
Hi there <3
What a range of emotions.. I have been thinking of you guys! Thank you for expressing many of the feelings I have and for your tips. Stay safe and healthy!! This too shall pass.
Thank you, Dougall, for your letter. My emotions have been up mostly as I see this as a shift of consciousness for the world. That some amazing things will come about from this experience as a whole. Then there are times when I do feel anxious and drained as I work in a senior living community. Self care is number one for me daily, eating more fruit and vegetables, dancing, meditating, and journaling. Stay healthy Dougall. Love and hugs
Dear Dougall:
Thank you so much! So nice reading you!
Love from México city.
You are a wonderfull person!
Blessings!
Fernando