Fatigue is defined as extreme tiredness resulting from mental or physical exertion or illness and pandemic (as defined by Merriam-Webster)  refers to something (more so an illness) occurring over a wide geographic area (such as multiple countries or continents) and typically affecting a significant proportion of the population.  Now these two occurrences have been put together to coin the term  “pandemic fatigue”. Pandemic fatigue is defined as the natural response people feel to the prolonged uncertainty and disruption caused by a pandemic.

This writing is not a debate as to whether the pandemic is real or not. 

The purpose is to present 3 simple ways to combat the natural responses people are feeling with regards to the prolonged uncertainty and disruption we are experiencing during these times.

Some of these responses show up as (but not limited to) an increase in:

• irritability
• fearfulness
• insomnia
• lack of motivation
• difficulty completing tasks which normally would have been completed well
• changes in appetite
• difficulty concentrating.

Most of us have experienced some if not all of these symptoms at some time or another but likely not as prolonged or deep in intensity as is being experienced now.

What can Help?

This is where I share 3 things we can all do (if we choose to) to alleviate if not eliminate the symptoms associated with pandemic fatigue.

1. Set a routine and stick to it as closely as possible. I am in no way suggesting that you plan every aspect of your day but having a framework helps. Say for example upon rising : intentionally care for your spiritual need by either praying, journaling, meditating, yoga, reading a sacred text, make your bed, cleanse self, breakfast, some physical activity (exercise), school/work…. These are just examples however I am sure you get the idea. Each day must see your whole self being fed – mind, body, spirit and your routine must be practical to YOUR life and circumstances.

2. Reach out to friends and family. We are all mandated to physically distance but we must keep connected at the heart. Be present emotionally in ways which are possible for your situation. We are reminded at 1 Thessalonians 5:11 that we should “….. keep encouraging one another and building one another up…”. Call friends and family (start with one day). Remember though that the words we use ..so the content of our conversation determines how we will feel and also influence the other person to feel. Create a beautiful experience/reality for yourself and all whom you associate with (virtually or otherwise).

3. Sleep. This sounds ooh so simple but we all know it isn’t. How do you shut off the incessant thoughts which surface once it it time to sleep? Prepare for sleep. Yes. Schedule time to start winding down if you must. Set boundaries. For example whilst you are available for friends and family to call and chat, this cannot be at all times. Let it be known that you are not available at 8pm (as an example) and use that hour (if you hope to sleep by 9) to de-stress. Have a shower (or bath if possible) using lavender, avena sativa (oat), rosemary, or other herbs which soothes the nervous system and helps in relaxation and mood enhancement. Write about your day (in chronological order) up until this present moment (this helps to release the mind of the days activities). For my sisters you can end by placing your hands on your womb (your centre) and use your mind to bring all in harmony. End with your spiritual practice. 

Let me know how this works for you.

This is Adassa, reminding you to re-member who you are and return to wholeness.