The Balanced Life, Huntsville Alabama

Believe it or not, we have made it to November. This year has been anything but predictable. At the beginning of 2020, nobody could have imagined the way our lives would change.

This year has felt like a nightmare to most of us. The kind where the

scary shadow is tripping on your heels and no matter how fast you run

you might as well be running on an omnidirectional track because you’re

not getting anywhere. No matter how bad the nightmare is, however, we

still have hope.

My life significantly changed on Monday, July 13, 2020.  On that day, my dear sister died from a short and tumultuous battle with pancreatic cancer.  The sting of grief that I felt that day has lingered, and seeing the rest of my family’s response to her death has added to it.  Despite my faith, I long to be with her, to hear her voice, now…

I’ve read countless articles on how Covid 19 has negatively impacted mental health and how suicide deaths are predicted to rise as a result of the pandemic. Some believe that this is due to an over focus on physical health and a minimization of mental health during this time.

In case you haven’t noticed, back to school this fall looks a lot different than it has in typical years.

About a month ago, Dana wrote a blog post about the benefits of mindfulness and those benefits naturally extend to our children! In fact, I’d say that kids and teenagers who are more thoughtful and calm is a benefit to us ALL!

At my bridal shower many years ago, those in attendance were asked to write down one bit of advice for me on an index card for me to have. 

Over the past few years, I’ve become increasingly interested in the concept of mindfulness and how it can benefit those who practice it. There is more and more research coming out that supports the many benefits from a mindfulness practice.

Let’s face it; we all anticipate some sense of normalcy sooner rather than later.  However, what does normalcy look like for you? 

While we are continuing to face challenges regarding COVID-19, there seems to be a strong desire by many to return to normalcy. This can be achieved by focusing on one’s own mental health and beginning or continuing therapy is a perfect way to do so. 

            Connecting during quarantine? I know, I know, six feet right? Circumventing CDC recommendations is not what this blog is about! However, we are struggling with the inability to connect during this time.