The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted us in many ways. Older adults are facing increased isolation, which increases the likelihood of experiencing depression and anxiety.
Take care of your mind, body and spirit and join us for a 4-week virtual series on self-care, hosted by Becky Franklin, LPC, Behavioral Health Therapist and Educator at Tri-County Mental Health. The free series is brought to you by Show Me Hope, Tri-County Mental Health Services and Platte County Community Center South.
Through weekly virtual sessions, you'll learn practical and enjoyable strategies for staying active, engaged and healthy while practicing physical distancing.
Event Information:
Session One: Monday, Feb 22 at 10 a.m.
Relaxation – When the body is experiencing a stress response, there is a speeding up in various functions (rapid breathing, increased heart rate, body tension, etc). In session one, we will discuss strategies to combat a stress response by slowing down body functions with soothing and calming exercises.
Session Two: Monday, March 1 at 10 a.m.
Mindfulness and Meditation – When stress hits, our tendency is to ruminate about the past or worry about the future. This takes away from being present in the here and now. In session two, we will focus on exercises geared toward being in the moment as a valuable addition to your coping toolbox. The mind and body have a powerful connection. Thus, we will include a discussion on how movement can help release stress and tension.
Session Three: Monday, March 8 at 10 a.m.
Grief takes Many Forms – During the pandemic, we have all been touched by various forms of grief. This week we will discuss change, loss and missing our previous “normal” way of doing things. We will also incorporate a focus on grief rituals, honoring relationships and creating meaning, even in difficult times.
Session Four: Monday, March 15 at 10 a.m.
Thoughts and Feelings – Our thought patterns impact what we feel and the choices we make in everyday behaviors. In session four, we will discuss common thought distortions and how these thoughts can automatically pop up in the mind. We will also discuss ways to create more balanced replacement thoughts and why this process is important and helpful to our overall well-being.
If you have questions or need more information, please contact Platte County Community Center South at 816.505.2622 or PlatteCountySouth@KansasCityYMCA.org.