It is a time of transition. It is scary to imagine going back to the way we were. Going back in public without a mask, fully dressed, wearing make up, cutting and coloring your hair. Fighting traffic to and from work. Working in an office, eating in restaurants, flying on airplanes. As an introvert, I don’t mind working from home! In fact, I could work from home forever. I discovered many silver linings during the pandemic. I accomplish much more from my home office when I don’t have to build in time for driving. I developed a walking routine and have a whole new community of walkers that I wave hello to (from a distance) everyday. I can snack anytime. I can throw in a load of laundry between clients. I saw family and friends more on Zoom during the past year than I did over the past five years. My extroverted friends, of course, felt differently. They couldn’t wait to have an in person social gathering or begin eating in bars and restaurants again! Yes, I realize it’s different in person. You can feel the energy of other people, see facial expressions and body language, and see the whole person not just from the neck up.

The Pandemic has brought grief and loss. The loss of loved ones to Covid or missing them due to social distancing. The elderly were more isolated than ever - experiencing loneliness and isolation way before the Pandemic. The loss of many small businesses and jobs, which has a domino effect, unable to pay the rent/mortgage, unable to feed our families or buy necessities. Despite fewer reports, there was more domestic violence and child abuse and neglect with no place to escape during the pandemic. Many kids rely on school for a safe space as well as for free breakfast and lunch. While kids were attending school virtually, many parents were forced to continue going into work. Other families were stuck at home together 24/7 feeling frustration, stressed out and praying for more space and privacy. Greater incidents of alcohol and drug abuse, as well as feeling depressed and anxious. The first year and a half was full of change and brought a sense of unpredictability, stress and fear. People are seeking out therapy - many for the first time.

As we return to the “new normal,” the pandemic is not over. It is spreading rapidly throughout Asia and the rest of the world. I have two yoga therapy friends - one in Taiwan and one in Hong Kong - they are on lockdown and do not have access to vaccines. Many people are unable to be vaccinated due to medical conditions and others are choosing not be vaccinated for various reasons. Use caution as you venture out - stick to your values, and don’t be afraid to honor your truth.