CDC’s recommendation for stress reduction. Where does meditation fit?

CDC ranks meditation as #1 in self-care during the on-going pandemic

I’ve written in a previous blog post on the grim mental health statistics the current pandemic’s posing. The CDC has also come up with stress busters on how to deal with mental health. Coping with stress in a healthy way will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.

Meditation made the stress-busters list and was #1 recommended in ways to take care of your body

According to the CDC website, the healthy ways to cope with stress:

• Know what to do if you are sick and are concerned about COVID-19. Contact a health professional before you start any self-treatment for COVID-19.
• Know where and how to get treatment and other support services and resources, including counseling or therapy (in person or through telehealth services).
• Take care of your emotional health. Taking care of your emotional health will help you think clearly and react to the urgent needs to protect yourself and your family.
• Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
• Take care of your body.
• Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate.
• Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
• Exercise regularly.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Avoid excessive alcohol and drug use.
• Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
• Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
• Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations. While social distancing measures are in place, consider connecting online, through social media, or by phone or mail.