Needless to say the terrible chain of events that have unfolded over the last couple weeks have been very difficult for all of us; and, unfortunately, many health professionals say this situation will get worse before it gets better. We are no longer able to do normal daily activities such as meet up with our friends, go to the gym, study in Zimmerman or do any of the other fun things we would routinely have the option to go do. However, life doesn’t have to be completely miserable and totally gloomy!

While adjusting to the relatively new concept of social distancing, I’ve been trying to focus on the positives during this quarantine time (as hard as it may be). We are all used to seemingly going a thousand miles per second throughout our busy days from commitment to commitment. This way of actively living makes this new time of social distancing and isolation very strange. But I think slowing down and focusing on living in the moment gives us a great opportunity to truly rest and find joy in the little things in our lives. Like maybe becoming a more balanced person!

​I have recently been finding time for things that would have normally been put on the back burner in my busy schedule. This includes, daily walks with my family, painting, board games, cooking, facetime my grandparents, working out in our spruced up home gym, cleaning my room, etcetera. I have been enjoying the opportunity to be intentional in a lot of my relationships with friends/family. Here are a few pictures from my past week:

I hope you are all settling into the terror of online classes and maybe taking up a new hobby while we’re tied to our houses. Remember that social distancing does not mean social isolation and that your voice matters during this difficult time. If anyone needs someone to talk to, I am always available at (505)249-7380, as well as your other SWE-sters who would love to talk with you! I look forward to virtually hanging out with all of you during our Zoom SWE meetings.

Here are a few resources for you to check out during your spare time:
1) greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/six_daily_questions_to_ask_yourself_in_quarantine
​2) www.readersdigest.ca/home-garden/cleaning/spring-cleaning-health-benefits/
3) www.idealist.org/en/careers/help-others-coronavirus

My best,
Haley Chavez