Garnet Counselling and Training
110 - 1440 Broadway Ave Regina, SK, Canada

Here are ideas for parents and families

Isolation buns.

Here is an explanation about the Covid-19 and why we need to isolate and wash our hands. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=BtN-goy9VOY&t=0s

Wow followers. I am amazed at how many read my last post. I have thought about sharing some of information I have about handling anxiety during this time of uncertainty. Anxiety is the physical response we have to worried thoughts. Some of the physical things that can occur are heart racing, trouble with breathing, dizziness, sweating, and difficulty focusing. We can expect to have anxiety to some degree but if feeling overwhelmed by it there are some things we can do. ... In immediate terms, taking some deep calming breaths can help. I have taught many children and their families to do cookie breathing. This is how it goes: Imagine you have a cookie out of the oven on your hand and it is too hot to eat. What is your favorite cookie? Take a breath through your nose and smell the cookie. Now when you breath out blow on your cookie with your mouth. Do this a few times not more than 5 for now and cool off the cookie. Maybe, you could make some real cookies at home with your kids. Help them by showing how you are managing your worries. Breathing is what we can do in the moment, anywhere, anytime. I borrowed this from Liana Lowenstein, a play therapist and social worker in Toronto. She has a website. Here is a picture of a couple of antique cars we saw in Cuba. Take care and stay safe. Myrna

Well, since my last post our world is very different after Covid-19 has impacted our lives. At this time it is important to stay calm and reassure your children/grandchildren we will all get through this and help each other by doing our best to think of others. Children are listening and watching how parents deal with crisis, so they will pick up on your moods and how you are handling uncertainty. Limiting social media sights where children can get either false information... or panic laden discussions would be helpful at this time. They can benefit from distracting activities. Fresh air and exercise are both good for handling anxiety. As we social distance from each other, activities like board games, crafts, drawing and coloring, eye spy, and other things they can play with each other and parents are all great. How about bringing out the Lego and have a building competition or Jenga, Yatzee etc. Even keeping in touch with their friends by computer or phone can help relieve isolation. I am self-isolating after returning from Cuba on Monday our first hot holiday since starting private practice. We are both feeling well but as time passes that might change. No use dwelling on what might happen or worrying. It will not change the outcome. My favorite pass-time is sewing which I might have shared with some of you. I have included a picture of a quilt top I am sewing together this week. I also am willing to offer phone or video sessions those of you who may be following this FB page. If children are feeling anxious and scared, it might help to have another adult saying the same thing as parents. My contact info is [email protected] Until next time.... Myrna