How traditions are helpful during COVID-19

Canadians have been practising physical distancing for weeks and are feeling the effects of social isolation: feeling lonely and disconnected.

One way of creating a sense of connectedness is looking to traditions. Traditions can be passed down over generations and provide individuals with a sense of comfort, joy, security, connection and a sense of belonging. Now more than ever, traditions can play a vital role in our well-being.

There are many cultural traditions from around the world that promote physical, emotional and mental well-being. Examples include Hygge, a Danish cultural tradition that involves candles, cozy slippers and a warm fire; Shinrin-yoku, the ancient Japanese practice of connecting with nature and the Indian tradition of yoga practice. (In Sanskrit, the term yoga means “to unite’, bringing harmony between the mind and the body.) These traditional practices can be useful tools to incorporate into our daily lives.

Take a moment to reflect on your traditions that you may be able to incorporate into your daily life: these can include cultural traditions, family traditions and memories from your childhood.

Tip: When developing/adopting traditions into your daily lives, start by thinking about the following:

1. Indulging your senses; your sense of smell, touch, taste, sight and hearing.
2. Thinking about meaningful memories or ways of connecting with ourselves, our culture, our families and our friends.
3. Reflect on what activities give you a sense of stability and comfort – this can include eating particular meals, candles, board games, a particular movie or activity.
4. Allow yourself to be in the present moment and minimize all distractions.