by As most of us will continue to experience the on-going lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, as well as perhaps having more time with the longer days of summer, why not approach these months with focused intention.
Let’s reflect on what that time may have been about from a psychological perspective.
We were all affected to some degree by the pandemic. Our personal anxieties and fears were triggered, and no doubt amplified by the overall global (anxious) situation. Our psyches were challenged, some of us truly entering the depths of our soul. For some, it was re-traumatizing. Many childhood wounds were activated, whether we were dealing with job and financial losses, government decisions, media coverage, and/or medical and safety concerns, etc.
We were asked to face our fears, to let go of some beliefs that no longer served us, learn what matters more or most, and to symbolically do some shedding of skins (personas or masks) that no longer fit who we are (this time round).
I say, ‘This time round’ as what we likely experienced was the cyclical process called the Hero’s Journey. The pandemic (fate) initiated the call, whether we wanted it or not. We resisted and yet, we had to go. Into the depths we went – and faced some inner monsters (fears, parts of self, etc.) along the way. We used all the tools and skills we had, gaining insights and clarity (treasures) along the way.
So, as we ‘return to normal,’ we hear that the normal will be a ‘new’ normal. And rightfully so. IF we have gone into the depths, humbled into parts of our self, clarified our beliefs, and emerged with some gifts (truths) of self, we will return with vigor and new confidence in who we are and what we have to offer or bring to the world (service).
So, back to the summer. What will you focus on?
What (fears, beliefs, negative cognitions, etc.) did you face and wrestle with during the pandemic?
What insights or lessons were learned?
How will you honour and integrate (prioritize and focus on) these new insights into your daily life?
How will you BE and what will you DO?
What did you learn? For some, it was an appreciation of time by self and with children/family. Some learned that spending less (saving) was possible, preparing meals (and other food stuff) brought pleasure and increased energy, and spending more time in nature brought increased peace. For others, cutting back on work led to better quality of life.
We realized what and whom matters most and did some sorting of relationships, priorities and values.
And so, whatever insights you discovered, the task is to bring these new understandings forward, living your new, more integral, way in your relationships and community.
Part of my ‘Summer of 2021’ will be the production and launching of the on-line material I’ve been developing. It has been a process! The 4-Module program, now called Honing Your Sword will launch September 1st. Find out about the content here. August’s newsletter will give pre-launch details and an introductory price.
All the best to your Summer of 2021. Peace
