Balance in the Time of Quarantine

We could all use a little Bravery right now.

For me to tap into the bravest and best version of myself, I know I can't just "tough it out" and immerse myself in the press releases and COVID-19 counts, nor can I live in the Land of Denial - (which is admittedly a tempting place to visit right now).

Neither of these are great options, so here are 3 things that not only help me, but they are helping us as an organization to adapt to our shared new reality.

Finding Inspiration & Gratitude, Facing Worries, and Helping.

What Inspires Me?

The author's 2 year old daughter, hard at play.

I never imagined that, at two years old, I would be teaching my daughter the word “staycation.” Sure, it may be a euphemism for what is really going on – hunkering down, laying low, social distancing, self-isolation, quarantine, lockdown – but at least it’s a friendly term. Whatever you call it, it’s our reality, and that of countless families over the world. For the time being, we are doing all we can to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities by staycationing at home.

Join us in Ringing in the New Year by integrating the practice of Sound Healing into your life! Traditionally used in Buddhist meditation, Tibetan singing bowls are known to have healing properties, stilling your mind while encouraging deep rest and relaxation. Sound Healing facilitates mindfulness, and elevates Theta and Alpha brainwaves, which are associated with relaxation and concentration (respectively). Practices such as mindfulness, breathwork, and meditation that can be incorporated with Sound Healing activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is associated with our “rest and digest” mode, and relaxed social engagement.

I went to a fascinating event recently, hosted by SFU Public Square & SFU Alumni. It was called Rethinking Philanthropy, and the event description asked some intriguing questions, including: “Is it time for a new model of philanthropy to meet our rapidly changing world with its increasingly complex problems?”

The topic of social justice philanthropy was discussed, which is in part the concept of addressing society’s problems systemically and collaboratively as opposed to adding to the “band-aid” solutions downstream.

Maria LeRose with her granddaughter Rosie, enjoying digital-free quality time together.

For our upcoming conference, Heart-Mind 2019: The Art + Science of Calm, we are thrilled to share that event moderator Maria LeRose will host a Digital Detox Panel with developmental psychologist, digital researcher, and UBC professor Dr. Jennifer Shapka. Before the conference we will challenge four people with diverse backgrounds and digital lifestyles to abstain from social media for two weeks and to journal  about their experiences. During the panel, they will share their stories with conference participants with Maria moderating the discussion, and Dr. Shapka offering her scientific perspective. 

Join us for Heart-Mind 2019: The Art & Science of Calm!

Tickets for this one day conference are $239 (plus tax and fees; includes breakfast and lunch). 

To buy tickets and to find out more information about the conference and our wonderful speakers click here.