Self-care is more important now than ever. Emotions are running high. Frustration about mask wearing can erupt in a viral-worthy tirade at the store, fear about loved ones catching the virus manifests in family warfare and situational depression can set in for the long haul. While typically self-care might mean a massage, going to the gym or getting together with friends on a Friday night, choices are limited in the days of the coronavirus. But there are ways that we can soothe ourselves, starting with self-compassion.

When I’m in a particularly difficult space, mindful breathing is one of the most effective ways that I can bring myself into the moment, sit with the emotion and observe my breath until the emotion fades or passes altogether. Then, I can tell myself that it’s normal to be thinking the way that I am, and that others are going through the same thing. Having compassion for yourself during hard times builds resiliency and reduces stress.

   

In this month’s feature story, “Emotional Well-Being in the Pandemic Age: Self-Care Strategies for Tough Times”, Sandra Yeyati looks at ways we can find calm in the chaos. She speaks with Kirstin Neff, who gives us tips on how mindful awareness can help us to stay with the pain long enough to take care of ourselves through physical and mental soothing.

   

We are all getting through these challenging months in our own ways. Many of us share similar situations, and it can be helpful to know that we are not alone in our feelings, our worries, and our decisions as we move forward into the fall. On page 18, read about some perspectives of Tucsonans and how they’re finding silver linings during these trying times.

   

Aside from our personal lives and well-being, this has been an especially scary time for small business owners, hoping to make it through the economic hardships that 2020 has brought. To help, we’ve included two articles that focus on how to get sales training help, how to keep your business thriving, and how to make tough decisions, on pages 20 to 22.

   

Keep reading for spiced up recipes, yoga for bone strengthening, inspiring art, natural antivirals and more.

However you choose to soothe—stay well, dear readers.

Holly