KNOWLEDGE & INSIGHTS

Mindfulness Meditation Can Calm Anxiety Over COVID-19

COVID-19 isn’t only making people sick, it’s infecting our psyche with anxiety and fear. As individuals, we cannot control this pandemic (although we can help slow its progression by following stay-at-home orders), but we can manage our reactions to it.

Meditation is a relaxation practice that can keep our thoughts and feelings in the present moment. While meditating, you are not ruminating about the past or worrying about the future. It trains us to be mindful —aware of each moment without the soundtrack of judgement running in our heads. NewBridge Services is presenting different meditation practices to try. Today’s topic is mindfulness meditation.

Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness involves keeping your attention in the present moment, to simply observe without judgements.

1. Sit or lie comfortably.
2. Set a timer, 5 minutes for beginners and longer as you get the hang of it.
3. Focus on your breathing, noticing the feeling of air passing in and out of your nostrils.
4. You are bound to experience thoughts and physical sensations. Acknowledge each one, then return your attention to your breath. Your breath is the anchor you return to.

Still Struggling?

If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, please contact NewBridge Services at (973) 316-9333. NewBridge, a community provider of mental health care for 57 years, now offers telehealth sessions. NewBridge’s skilled, licensed counselors can help people cope with:

• Anxiety, depression and other mental health problems
• Addiction
• Grief and trauma
• Relationship challenges
• Anger management