COVID-19 Coping & Resilience Tip: A Joyful Relief Moment

Posted on September 23, 2020 by Terri Foley

The physical, cognitive and psychological benefits of laughter and distraction with adorable or beautiful things are well documented, and something we really need now in the time of COVID.

Your overall well-being is enhanced immediately and can be improved long-term if you do these activities regularly—especially on your toughest days. Listed below are some examples of small things you can try (5 minutes or less required) in order to have a good laugh or get a break from the stressors of COVID.

1. Look at pictures of scenes that you are drawn to in nature (notice which give you good feelings and find more of those). Post one in a space you spend time in frequently.
2. Watch a video of puppies, babies, kittens or your favorite animal or person doing silly things (there are millions to choose from including your own).
3. Remember that old clip from a show or movie that made you laugh out loud? Watch that too.
4. Pause to take in a beautiful scene in your community. Maybe it’s out your front door or a tree you can see from where you’re standing right now that’s changing colors.
5. Get out and breathe fresh air while you take in the sights for bonus resilience-building.
6. Post a funny fact or quote of the day in your own personal or work space; or share as a start to meetings.  

For more tips and reads on this topic check out:  Laughter as Stress Relief,  from Mayo Clinic.com and  13 Science-Based Reasons That Suggest Viewing Nature Scenes Can Improve Your Health from Happy Brain Science.com.

LeadingAge Minnesota COVID-19 Staff Coping & Support Hotline

If you’d like to have a 20-minute coaching session on improving your coping skills, please call the COVID-19 Staff Coping & Support Hotline at 612-455-8656 or send an email to: covidsupport@acp-mn.com. After the COVID-19 Hotline team receives your message, you will receive a prompt confirmation regarding the day and time you can expect to receive a coaching call. The Hotline is staffed by the Associated Clinic of Psychology.