A Room With a View: The Physical Room

The Indian Proverb, A House With Four Rooms states that we should each think of ourselves as having four rooms: a physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual rooms. It goes on to say that we need to go into each of these four rooms every single day— not for long periods of time but at least to open the window— to be a complete person.

This means that we must do something daily for our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being...and many times, what we choose to do spills over into more than one room.

For example, when we eat a well-balanced diet and exercise regularly we are doing something for our Physical Room. When you exercise and take care of your physical health, you also benefit in your Emotional and Spiritual Rooms, too. A walk in nature has a way of “airing out” these rooms; I often use a walking meditation, prayer, or breathing exercises to help me find clarity and peace.

The endorphins ripple out and have a way of working magic in your Physical Room; however, the Physical Room isn’t just the physical body— it’s also the physical space in which we live. So think of your personal space at home and work, your community, state, country, and the global society as a whole.

What are you doing daily for your Physical Room?

As of this writing, the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is rippling out into our global society. A quick Google search defines it: Coronavirus: any of a group of RNA viruses that cause a variety of diseases in humans and other animals. As of today, there are 57 cases across 12 states, as well as 45 cases from passengers from a Princess cruise ship, and 3 other cases from travelers to China. Here in Washington state, 18 cases (6 deaths) have been reported, and in California, more than 20 Coronavirus cases have been announced — more than any other state thus far.

The worldwide ripple at this time is 92,298 cases and 3,130 deaths...yes, it is being called a crisis, but there is no need for panic or hysteria. It’s time to get organized, educated, and working on protecting our Physical Room.

What can you do? 

First, stay aware of the latest information. Television, radio, and the Internet are quick ways to educate yourself. The World Health Organization has information that provides everything from statistics to basic protective measures.

Most people who become infected experience flu-like symptoms, so are advised to seek testing and treatment for fever, cough, or shortness of breath. Follow the advice of your physician and medical professionals. Stay home if you feel sick to protect yourself and others. If you do need to seek medical attention, call ahead for information for reporting instructions.

Make sure to follow the instructions and advice of your physicians, your national and local public health authority to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. If you’ve traveled in areas where COVID-19 is spreading, make sure to inform your physician.

Next, make sure you are maintaining healthy habits:

Wash your hands frequently with soap and hot water for a minimum of 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Make sure to clean under your fingernails as well. Make sure to wash your hands when dirty, after coughing or sneezing, when caring for others, before, during and after preparing food, before eating, after using the bathroom, and after handling animals.

Maintain social distance of at least 3 feet between yourself and others, especially those who are coughing or sneezing. A cough or sneeze typically sprays small liquid droplets that can be breathed in. Don’t spit on the ground...and avoid contact with others that are spitting.

Avoid touching your face because your hands can be contaminated and transfer germs to your eyes, nose, and mouth. If your hands carry the virus, you could easily transfer it by touching your face. If you are sick, wear a face mask. Once you put on the mask, do not touch it again. Throw away single use masks in a trash can.

Practice respiratory hygiene by covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow when you cough or sneeze. You can also use a tissue, but make sure to dispose of it after use and wash your hands.

These tips are not just for managing COVID-19, they are strategies for well-being in your Physical Room; however, it is also important to manage stress during times like these. You can do this in a few steps:

• Stay in touch with family and friends...talk to people you trust to help you if you feel sad, stressed, confused, scared or angry.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper diet, exercise, sleep, and if you have to stay at home, make sure to stay in contact with other people.
• Don’t over indulge in alcohol or smoking. It’s important to have a plan to talk with a health worker, counselor, or mental health caregiver if needed.
• Be educated about the situation, but don’t over indulge in news...limit your time that you spend watching television or media coverage.
• Make sure to respond to children in a positive and supportive manner, listen to their concerns, and reassure them. Try to keep to regular routines, spend time together, and teach them how to practice healthy habits.

Are there other preparations that you can make?

As a precaution, make sure you have the necessary supplies available in case you are shut-in your home for 2 weeks. This includes medical supplies as well as:

• toilet paper
• drinks: water, coffee, tea, etc.
• nonperishable food: canned food, pasta, peanut butter, etc.
• pet food

This ”emergency kit” is similar to preparing for hurricane season. It’s not a time for panic, but for preparation, organization, education, and safety...for peace of mind.

As someone who suffers from respiratory issues and has family living near Daegu, South Korea, I’m hyper sensitive to protecting my Physical Room for a healthy and Intentional Life.

Until next time...

Cheers!

Lisa

P.S. Please join me in prayer for the families, the medical professionals, and service workers affected by CORVID-19.