“Dutchman’s Breeches” on a recent walk.

Sorry this blog has been quiet since COVID-19 descended upon us. I’ve been working crazy amounts of hours trying to figure out how to support the faith community I serve during this pandemic. I’ve learned new technologies such as Zoom and iMovie. I’ve checked in with my seniors to see if they have everything they need. I’ve helped to coordinate resources in my local community and online. It’s been hectic, emotional and chaotic. I suspect you’re feeling the same way, too!

So, how do we keep ourselves sane and healthy during this difficult time? I certainly don’t have all the answers but this is what is working for me:

• Make sure you take a walk out in nature each day. Breathe deeply and try to connect with the energy of the earth. Take joy in the small things such as spring flowers in bloom or the exuberant conversation of crows. And, yes, keep that six foot barrier between you and others while your walking!
• Find ways to keep your connections to others. I’ve called friends I haven’t talked to in a very long time. I’ve set up Zoom get-togethers with my kids and friends alike. I’ve chatted with my next door neighbor from a safe distance. Whatever it takes, you need to remind yourself and others that you are not alone in this pandemic.
• Freshen up your home altar. Make sure your connection to the Divine and other spirit allies is strong. Today, I took about an hour to deep clean the room where my altar is located. I played one of my favorite Pagan folks bands, Faun, and danced to their joyous music. I dusted everything on my altar and arranged things in a way that felt powerful and meaningful to me. I lit candles and burned incense. Then I asked the Ancestors, Elemental Spirits and other allies to guide and protect me and those I love during this challenging time in the life of our planet.
• Limit your time watching the news. Yes, we all need to be informed but I find that if I constantly listen to the 24-hour news cycle, it leave me feeling very depressed. Take “technology Sabbaths” where you unplug for a while. It will do your heart a world of good.

So, that’s what’s working for me. Please feel free to comment and share what it working for you. I thank you for your support and interest in what I’ve written over the years. I wish you all health and protection and safety! Blessed be!

Copyright ©2020 by David Taliesin, http://www.sabbatsandsabbaths.com