ARTICLES & BLOG
MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU
MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU
A long time ago, in galaxy far, far away …actually it’s about here and now.
I couldn’t resist using Star Wars one of my favourite films and franchises.I have wanted to write about some of the observations and reflections I have about people’s behaviour during the pandemic. I wasn’t sure what to title it or how to actual phrase some of the ideas as they were forming but I think a thread has developed so here goes.
I am currently reading The 8th Habit by Stephen Covey. It’s a book that I have had for over 15 years (as you know I am a Covey and Habits fan), but had not been able to get traction into this books till now. A quote near of the beginning of the book worth contemplating is:
ALL THAT IS NECESSARY FOR THE TRIUMPH OF EVIL IS THAT GOOD MEN DO NOTHING - Edmund Burke
A long time ago, in galaxy far, far away …actually it’s about here and now.
Happy Star Wars Day - May the 4th Be With You.
I couldn’t resist using Star Wars one of my favourite films and franchises.
I have wanted to write about some of the observations and reflections I have about people’s behaviour during the pandemic. I wasn’t sure what to title it or how to actually phrase some of the ideas as they were forming but I think a thread has developed, so here goes.
I am currently reading -The 8th Habit by Stephen Covey. It’s a book that I have had for over 15 years (as you know I am a Covey and Habits fan), but had not been able to get traction into this book till now. A quote near of the beginning of the book worth contemplating on is:
“ALL THAT IS NECESSARY FOR THE TRIUMPH OF EVIL IS THAT GOOD MEN DO NOTHING”
In this wonderful video and song by Nimo Patel and Daniel Nahmod from Empty Hands music captures the above quote quite well. Very uplifting song and video.
Before you read any further watch this A pale blue dot - humbling video. It is awesome, out of this world and less than 3.5 minutes long, watch in full screen with full attention and contemplation.
I have made judgements, I know we are not supposed to judge, but still I have made judgements based on my observations of behaviour how they either align to or break my perceptions/beliefs of values, universal principles and moral laws.
In the Together in Isolation I shared a Shantaram book concept, which I reshare here.
What is an objective, universally acceptable definition of good and evil?
„In order to know about any act or intention or consequence, we must first ask two questions. One, what would happen if everyone did this thing? Two, would this help or hinder the movement toward complexity?” – Khaderbhai
(Complexity meaning God)
What I found more relevant in everyday life: there are no good or bad people. There are only “good deeds” and “bad deeds” and the sum of those deeds – the actions we perform – are what make us into someone good or bad— Gregory David Edwards - Shantaram
Evil or Bad behaviour stems from a centre of Fear while Good Behaviour flows from a centre of Love.
STUPID IS AS STUPID DOES - FORREST GUMP
BAD OR EVIL BEHAVIOUR
started with the motto
“Don’t be evil”
which has now been changed to
“do the right thing”
Using that concept is how I am defining good or evil/bad. I read about, watched or was told of the following bad behaviours:
Stockpiling of food and toilet paper which meant health care people were not able to get. Tearful plea from Nurse Dawn
Stockpiled food being thrown away weeks later unused
People packing into tube trains, supermarkets, pubs, clubs, parks and beaches when social distancing and staying at home has been requested. Dr Jack on LBC radio making emotional please for people to stay at home
People ignoring the social distancing guidelines
Blind forward of messages and information creating fear (see previous article)
Idiots out and about when they should be at home, who cough on the police as the police try to do their job and keep people safe
People including celebrities going out and about when they are showing symptoms thereby infecting others
Price hikes on popular items
Scams emerging to take advantage of people
Coronavirus: Arrests after men lick hands and wipe supermarket food
In my opinion these stem from fear, ignorance, selfishness, other lower emotions and energies.
An article by Miranda Birch has captured an interview with my cousin Sanjay Shah, an Emotional Intelligence Coach. It covers the 3 things that drive us: Security, Approval and Control and sheds light on why some behave from a base of fear and others from higher energy emotions such as peace, acceptance and courage. Love is not listed but I would say it is synonymous with peace which is at the top of the list. Very useful insights and thoughts for individuals and businesses especially in current pandemic circumstances. Sanjay was the one who in 1994 introduced me to Tony Robbins and Personal Development, an area that has been a major impact in my life.
“The moment you accept a situation energetically – if you accept it rather than pretend to accept it – you are already above the line. You respond in a better way. You make different decisions and take different actions, which will then create better results for you, your company and your clients.”
“IS THE STREAM OF CONSCIOUSNESS DRIED UP, A TRICKLE OR OVERFLOWING?”
GOOD BEHAVIOUR & INTENTIONS
Many good behaviours stem from good intentions and a centre of love, compassion and a common humanity.
Variety of roles and professions doing their jobs while putting themselves at risk to save the lives of others. Key workers including but not exclusive to : doctors, nurses, hospital staff (cleaners, suppliers, reception etc), pharmacists, teachers, carers, care home staff, supermarket staff, garbage collection teams, transport providers (bus, tube,taxi drivers), supply chain delivery teams and drivers
Companies focused on making and supplying safety equipment
People working or treatments, vaccines and medicines
Companies redeploying staff or making changes to their working methods e.g. John Lewis closing retail stores and deploying staff to Waitrose food supermarkets, Fast food and coffee shops being only take away not sit in restaurant, Santander Bank making Santander bikes available free to hospital staff
People sensibly applying social distancing, stay at home, self isolation and hand washing
Transport For London telling people not to travel!
The Excel Exhibition Centre in London being re-purposed as the Nightingale Hospital in less than 10 days
Airline staff who can not fly due to grounded planes being giving opportunity to put their first aid and customer caring skills to use as volunteers in the Nightingale Hospital
Over 700K people signing up to be NHS Volunteers
Many caterers and food outlets producing and delivering meals for free to hospital staff
Countless acts of kindness, generosity and good will for elderly, vulnerable, those self isolating and those in need
From The Science of Happiness we know that contribution, service, compassion, kindness, love, empathy, cooperation, meaning, purpose, learning, love, care giving and common humanity all are components for our happiness and well being. These are exhibited in the good behaviour actions.
“When the history of the world and of institutions, societies, communities and families is finally written, the dominant theme will be the degree to which people have lived not by their socialised conscience but by their divine conscience. That is the innate, intuitive wisdom contained in the principles during philosophies of the world. It won’t be geopolitics, economics, government, wars, social culture, art, education or churches. The moral or spiritual dimension - how true people and institutions are to universal, timeless principles of right and wrong - will be the overarching and underlying supreme governing force”
Stephen Covey - The 8th Habit from Effectiveness to Greatness
A pale blue dot - humbling video well worth watching. It is awesome, out of this world and less than 3.5 minutes long, watch in full screen with full attention and contemplation (repeated here in case you missed it near beginning of article).
THE UNIVERSAL FORCE : THE POWER OF LOVE
MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU
Some videos on the Power of Love and very informative and powerful. The first is an Interview with Sister Jayanti from the Brahma Kumaris discussing the situation of the coronavirus, the power of love, meditation and Soul consciousness.
The Brandon Bays video on The Power of Love, a supposedly letter from Albert Einstein. On the internet there is debate as to if this letter was actually written by Albert Einstein. Irrespective of that, the message is awesome and worth listening to and contemplating.
MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU
On 6th May 2020 Young Jains as part of Enriching Conversations are having a session on “Conquer Your Darkside -May the ForceBe With You” about overcoming Anger, Greed, Ego and Deceit in all their flavours.
A request dear friend and reader.
(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.
(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.
(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.
(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can work a win-win result.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page
Happy Life Habits WhatsApp Group
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good; supporting the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
HOUSTON WE HAVE A PROBLEM : WE'VE LOST CONNECTION
This article follows on from The Ups & Downs of a Happiness Coach: Craving Connection. This one is about loneliness, suicide and connection. This is what its like to feel lonely.
With the massive changes we are currently facing of Social Isolation, Social Distancing, Lockdown etc. and this likely to continue for many months is going to have an impact on peoples mental health, sense of connection and people are going to feel lonely, hopeless and suicidal. This article and is here to serve as for you all to tap into you spider senses and keep aware of that tingling feeling to raise the awareness to watch out for your emotions as well as those of others. More so that ever we need to actively reach out, check in and keep connected and help others to also do so.
This article follows on from The Ups & Downs of a Happiness Coach: Craving Connection. This one is about loneliness, suicide and connection. This is what its like to feel lonely.
That’s right I purposefully put a lot of empty, blank space in, nothing there. How did that make you feel when you read it, saw it? Feel any connection?
I almost considered not writing anything and publishing just the title and introduction. At the start of Craving Connection article I had shared that:
“As an experiment, for my own happiness and a way to serve I am going to chronicle as a diary some of my thoughts (ups and downs) and actions during this pandemic…..During this pandemic I have been craving for connection both people to people and grateful for the technology connections, I guess with the previous articles on Happier Relationships and what I have learnt over time I understand the importance of this to our happiness, well being and mental health. I have also been through the turbulence of insecurities and validation issues.
So, a request dear friend and reader
(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.
IMAGINE IF IT HAD BEEN A CRY FOR HELP!. The clues where there “Ups & Downs”, “Craving Connection”, “Mental Health”, “Happier Relationships”, “Turbulence”, “Insecurities” . I was asking for connection, I was asking for you to email me and let me know (1) you exist and (2) that I exist. I had one email come through on the request put at beginning and end of article. Thank you my friend (to be fair I have had some other messages and conversations with others also).
Imagine if I was not in good Mental Health and maybe even Suicidal what could have happened if that one email did not come through? I know from website statistics that more than one person had read the article. The picture on the article of me sitting on a chair , on a cliff edge looking out and contemplating could have turned into standing up and taking a few steps to the cliff edge and then a few more steps…
HOW ARE YOU?
Thank you for asking…For the record I am currently I am not having any suicidal thoughts. I am in good mental health, happy, feel very connected, grateful, purposeful, and making a difference. Feeling awesome. Living my purpose and mission statement.
“I continuously contribute, learn, grow and make a positive difference to all in my environment adding tremendous value.
I am a caring, loving, supportive family member and friend.
I act with integrity, truthfulness and do the right thing.
I use my time effectively, am a creator of wealth, value and abundance. I achieve balance”
With the massive changes we are currently facing of Social Isolation, Social Distancing, Lock down etc. and this likely to continue for many months it is going to have an impact on peoples mental health, sense of connection and people are going to feel lonely, hopeless and suicidal. This article is here to serve. For you to tap into you spider senses and keep aware of that tingling feeling, to raise the awareness to watch out for your emotions as well as those of others. More so that ever we need to actively reach out, check in and keep connected and help others to also do so. If you are feeling loneliness - there is help available see resources at the end.
Here are some quotes from Happier Relationships article and workshop as well as some new ones that are worth reflecting on:
What I have been doing to remain connected… I have…
had individual planned and unplanned catch ups with friends and family - some lovely individual conversations
been involved in online communities that I was physically part of - great sharing and insights
reached out to many of my clients and contacts with a short message to check they are ok and letting them know I am here
been running Happiness Booster Sessions - really enjoying these and feel I am making a difference, see events page for future ones or get in touch :)
been building a Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group
been taking part in 21 Day challenge and feeling connected to people from around the world. We had our first Zoom call recently with attendees from UK, India, USA and Hungary all sharing similar feelings with their respective lock down and situation
using video call more often to contact people
keeping mindful of my emotions, thoughts and actions
keeping my happy life habit practices in place including gratitude and mindfulness
when going for our daily walk smiling and waving to strangers
I’ve applied to be a NHS Volunteer to do role of check in and chat. We can all do that.
Let me know what is helping you stay connected
RESOURCES
A request dear friend and reader.
(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.
(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.
(3) While doing (1) if you would be interested in free 30 min video conference calls for Happiness Boosters - connection and sharing, during these times let me know if morning, afternoon or evening preference and weekday and/or weekend. I will endeavour to serve.
(4) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page
Happy Life Habits WhatsApp Group
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good; supporting the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
THE UPS & DOWNS OF A HAPPINESS COACH: CRAVING CONNECTION
As an experiment, for my own happiness and a way to serve I am going to chronicle as a diary some of my thoughts (ups and downs) and actions during this pandemic. Things that I am doing and finding beneficial to my all round happiness and well being many based on the themes shared in Together in Isolation .
The CounsellingTeacher.com Clipart Stephens Art
As an experiment, for my own happiness and a way to serve I am going to chronicle as a diary some of my thoughts (ups and downs) and actions during this pandemic. Things that I am doing and finding beneficial to my all round happiness and well being many based on the themes shared in Together in Isolation .
During this pandemic I have been craving for connection both people to people and grateful for the technology connections, I guess with the previous articles on Happier Relationships and what I have learnt over time I understand the importance of this to our happiness, well being and mental health. I have also been through the turbulence of insecurities and validation issues.
So, a request dear friend and reader
(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.
(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.
(3) While doing (1) if you would be interested in free 30 min video conference calls for Happiness Boosters - connection and sharing, during these times let me know if morning, afternoon or evening preference and weekday and/or weekend. I will endeavour to serve.
(4) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.
More will become clear as you read the rest of the article.
Week Commencing 16 March 2020
We are in the early stages of the pandemic and lots of fear and confusion is prevalent. Many things getting postponed, cancelled or closed - life is changing day by day. During the start of that week I was focused on the task of writing the Together in Isolation article to capture some for the sentiments and share how I and others are coping with it. What is helping us find certainty in uncertain times. For 2.5 days I was fully engrossed and in a flow state with this task being creative, resourceful, reflective and connecting with my communities. I thoroughly enjoyed it and felt I had produced a good quality, useful article especially as I am one of the most optimistic, positive and happy person I know and if I was feeling fear, uncertainty and unhappy during these times others must also be. During which I got the idea to have some online sessions to connect and share ideas. As is my nature, I wanted to share far and wide ,so I posted in WhatsApp groups, Facebook and LinkedIn.
I got some feedback from some people that they found the article useful. However seeing other articles/videos/posts being widely shared on the various mediums and mine not so much I felt it was not valued so much, including articles I had written previously which I felt were rich in content.
This compounded with seeing messages over time of peers getting various speaking slots, book launches or acknowledgement was having a knock on my self esteem.
Add to this where I set up 3 free online sessions on The International Day of Happiness (20 March) to have happiness boosters, connect, share content and conversation hoping to positively impact as many as possible and having 1 or 2 people only join each call made me wonder if what I am doing has any value. If I can’t give it away for free how am I going to make a living out of it later on?
I was grateful for the people who did take the opportunity and join the call. Some were friends and family, one was a complete stranger. Even if it was one person, I had a lovely time connecting with them, each sharing responses to a few questions and getting a better insight on life. I felt connected, I learnt and developed skills and felt I was able to positively impact Happiness and Well Being Levels. I felt energised and uplifted after the sessions. While helping others I was helping myself. This gave me validation that there is value in what I am doing. I am fulfilling Happy Life Habits mission of Positively Impacting Happiness & Well Being Levels and I am living my personal mission statement. Using the graphic of what I can control and what I can not control has reminded me to focus on what I do, keep improving and adding value. Not to get distracted by what others think or what others are doing.
Hence I intend to offer more such sessions - I don’t know the timing or frequency therefore the request at the start of the article. For now I will share details on website and Happy Life Habits WhatsApp Group.
What I’m doing
I am keeping a focus on what I can control - the image for this article being related to the Covey 7 Habits of Highly Effective People .
I am observing my thoughts, feelings and actions.
I am rebuilding and installing new routines and behaviours
I am reducing the noise and distractions
I am staying connected
I am keeping a flexible structure
I am prudent with how I am using my time
I am learning , growing and serving
I am applying the 7 Habits as well as other learning from Personal Development, The Science of Happiness and Spirituality
With our whole household now at home or working from home we need to actively build new routines, plans and be organised.
What is helping me is
Continuing my happiness practice of using my Happiness Journal each day and every day
Regularly meditating or being mindful
Going for walks during the day to get some fresh air, exercise and activity
Making sure we have some fresh foods (fruit and veg in the diet) along with good hydration
Making plans, to do lists, shopping lists and potential menus
I am not watching or following news actively - a little in the morning and then the UK Government Boris Johnson 5 pm live conference
I am keeping my phone on silent for much of day, have many notifications switched off and not looking at everything I receive on WhatsApp or email. Each day clearing out the messages.
From 21 Day Simple Living Challenge, a challenge early on was to tackle your inbox. Across my various email accounts I filed some useful emails and then mass selected, some of which had been parked for 3 years or more to be read and just zapped them. It felt good and had inboxes that I could see on the screen without scrolling! I need to redo that exercise again after receiving Covid 19 emails from all accounts where I am subscribed.
I am finding great benefit in taking part in 21 day challenge that I hosted on Simply Living. Some wonderful ideas and shared insights. The challenge was from start of March as pandemic unfolded in Europe to 21st March. It helped me focus on things I could do, positivity, gave a routine and via the platform website reading and commenting others insights made me feel connected
Due to the benefit I have gained from the 21 day Challenge I have set up more challenged back to back on Reverence, Kindness, Mindfulness and Gratitude to see me though the next few months of the pandemic.
KarunaVirus reponding with compassion is an initiative by ServiceSpace the same organisation behind the 21 Day Challenge Project. This website is a collection of positivity and compassion shown during the pandemic from around the world.
I am reducing my time on Facebook and LinkedIn - they are useful but easier to get stuck in noise and lose time
In terms of connection the online video conference is what I am finding works for me best. As mentioned in Together in Isolation
“The communities that I am a part of; being for me a source of faith, learning, growth, health, service and social activity were all stopping events and activity - badminton clubs, youth clubs, Jain Faith School, Jain Faith Convention, meditation circles, etc. This was impacting my sense of connection, community, clarity and meaning.”
The Jain School, Shree Chadana Vidhya Peeth (SCVP) started zoom video online adults classes so we took part in that.
The Museum of Happiness have online sessions.
The Awakin meditation circles I enjoy are now a online offering.
For Young Jains we discussed at the weekend and developed a set of sessions called “Enriching Conversations” : Online conversations by Young Jains, to help stay connected, share insights and remain centred. The first theme being “Finding Calm in the Chaos”.
Over the weekend we set up some video conference calls with some from my side of the family and a separate one with my wife’s. These were incredibly beneficial to see, talk with and share with family from all around the UK as well as outside of UK. We shared the impact the pandemic was having on us, what we were doing and what we found useful. It also was so beautiful to have the elder generation (self isolating - vulnerable, high risk) able to take part. I found this to be very nourishing and grateful that technology is available to allow this.
Based on all these experiences and my craving to connect as mentioned at the start I am going to hold Happy Life Habit Booster sessions. Just get in touch if interested.
I am continuing to find opportunities to learn and grow. The above are some as well as choosing some online training to partake in as well as reading (which was part of my routine prior to pandemic anyway). I have just finished the awesome 933 page Shantaram which I started at the start of the month after having been lent the book 4 years or so ago.
Until the next instalment of “The Ups & Downs of a Happy Coach”, stay safe, stay connected, be happy, help others, wash your hand and follow the guidelines.
A request dear friend and reader.
(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.
(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.
(3) While doing (1) if you would be interested in free 30 min video conference calls for Happiness Boosters - connection and sharing, during these times let me know if morning, afternoon or evening preference and weekday and/or weekend. I will endeavour to serve.
(4) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page
Happy Life Habits WhatsApp Group
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good; supporting the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
“SUCCESS IS THE PROGRESSIVE REALISATION OF A WORTHY GOAL OR IDEAL”
TOGETHER IN ISOLATION
Together in Isolation
Finding Certainty in Uncertain Times :
Living during Coronavirus pandemic
Dedicated to every beings happiness on the UNs International Day of Happiness March 20th.
Shaileen Shah - Happiness Coach - Happy Life Habits
I started this blog article as a refreshing relish from the recent weeks of brain fog clouded by confusion, worry, uncertainty, anxiety, fear, helplessness and distraction. Anyone else felt the same?
Finding Certainty in Uncertain Times :
Living during Coronavirus pandemic
Dedicated to every being’s happiness for the UNs International Day of Happiness March 20th.
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.”
Together in Isolation - I replaced with We - illness becomes Wellness
“In the future the history that will be written & remembered will be about how we thought, spoke & acted in the present through this crisis.”
Next bit
Wow what a fabulous title, image quote, opening to this article - if I say so myself. The opening quote is not mine but from Charles Dickens in the opening of a Tale of Two Cities - captures the present moment well. Likewise the Viktor Frankl quote happened to be the one in my Happiness Journal as I started this blog. The title is borne fruit from creative, inspired and motivated moments that I have recently had (quite humbly proud so I am going to savour it and affirm the positive, in fact I’ll share a clever quote that I came up with - though could be a paraphrase of someone else’s!). I started this blog article as a refreshing relish from the recent weeks of brain fog clouded by confusion, worry, uncertainty, anxiety, fear, helplessness and distraction. Anyone else felt the same?
I am worried about:
my elderly parents who have underlying health conditions so are high risk to the virus
my son due to sit his GCSEs in a few months
my finances
my developing happiness business
my own, my families and friends health
our communities, our nation, our world
our future
Quite surreal the times we are living in. Impacting everything and I mean everything. Stockmarkets imploding on a daily basis - savaging our investments, pensions and futures, country by country, nation by nation, community by community, person by person filling with uncertainty and forced changed - that we can do nothing about. The news being only on one topic, people going into Chicken Little mode “the sky is falling, the sky is falling”, rumours, conspiracy theories and misinformation perpetuating the fear and stock piling. On a daily basis and sometimes hourly radical changes occurring. Industries, nations, leaders brought to their knees. How do we cope? How do we survive?
“The Universal Constant is Change”
The communities that I am a part of; being for me a source of faith, learning, growth, health, service and social activity were all stopping events and activity - badminton clubs, youth clubs, Jain Faith School, Jain Faith Convention, meditation circles, etc. This was impacting my sense of connection, community, clarity and meaning.
I’m a Happiness Coach, trained in Science of Happiness, Personal Development and Spirituality and during this period of worry, zombie mode, lack of direction & action, helplessness as things unfolded impacting everything, I struggled. The nudge from my wise wife and a couple of conversations with a few people led to this action. Change the focus from doom and gloom to positivity, kindness and happiness - tap into what you know that helps and tap into others. I reached out to my communities via various means to ask how they were dealing and coping. The response and contributions were fabulous : quotes, actions, tips, meditations, poetry, humour, special voice recorded message. Around the same time I got some emails/newsletters with wonderful content. Funny how the Universe delivers what we focus on and how the Law of Attraction works. All the contributions are gems that can positively impact and uplift. I personally got direction, connection, insights, energy and inspiration. Thankful for it all.
I am currently hosting a 21 Day Simple Living Challenge that on day 16 when I started this article had the theme: Day 16: Practice Single-tasking - so using that I have focused onto research and content for this article.
Together in Isolation - has a few meanings, it means if we do have to go into isolation or social distancing we are not alone, we are in this together, it is a shared humanity. The forced changes break our existing routines, reality and isolation can lead to a sense of disconnection, loneliness and depression. See the previous 2 articles on Happier Relationships. By being selfish, self centred we will not get through this. Every human (and other living beings also) is being impacted.
“The coronavirus is apolitical. It doesn’t discriminate on the basis of race, gender, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. There is an opportunity here to transcend the individualism that has led to an atomized and polarized society. In our collective hands, we have tremendous power to stop the spread of this pathogen and forge a new story of connection instead of separation.
If we can get through this together, it may bring us together.
Mantra: Stay Centred, Follow the Science, Don’t succumb to Fear, Spread Information not the Virus
”
This quote is from an informative, sensible action packed podcast is really worth listening to. I love the Mantra: Stay Centred, Follow the Science, Don't succumb to Fear, Spread Information not the Virus. Here is the link Coronavirus and Our Common Humanity Commune with Jeff Krasno
The Universe, Mother Nature, Earth the greatest innovator and disrupter has decided that humanity as a collective needed a moment to standstill, break the pattern, take stock (not stock pile!), reflect on what matters, be present and mindful, escape from the every day business and take a look around and be reminded of the higher power - the power of love, kindness, compassion and peace.
I remember Wayne Dyer sharing an example of squeezing (not sneezing!) an orange and asking what will come out? Will it be apple juice? No. Grapefruit juice? No. Orange Juice? Yes. Why? Because that is what is inside. The Universe from time to time will test us and squeeze. What will come out? Whatever is on the inside will come out. If inside is selfish, self centred, greedy, inconsiderate, angry, fearful then that is what will be expressed. If inside is love, peace, kindness, gratitude, happiness, certainty then that is what will show up. We are currently being squeezed. We see this with the stories of people going nuts and stockpiling out of fear and selfishness, being xenophobic and spreading misinformation. I read a story of a many who picked up the last packet of pasta in a store when he already had plenty more packets and an elderly lady requesting if she could have it as she had none and him saying no. Or the photos of people who stockpiled items that will last well into next year. These stories play heavy on the heart and bring a dark cloud in the mind. Fortunately I am reading and hearing more positives such as the Sikh person who helps feed the homeless extending to give cleaning materials, maps of public washrooms and information on how to wash hands, or the Italians singing as a community in the evening while in lock down, or the coordinated clapping by Spanish for the gratitude to the front line health care professionals dealing with this crisis. This BBC link shares kindness stories including the creative idea of a postcard for options to help for those self isolating.
Received via WhatsApp - Transport for London Quote
I am currently reading the incredible, gripping book Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts. It is a 933 page novel biography peppered with wonderful ideas. This is the perfect book to read if self isolating. One question in it is: What is an objective, universally acceptable definition of good and evil?
“What is an objective, universally acceptable definition of good and evil?
„In order to know about any act or intention or consequence, we must first ask two questions. One, what would happen if everyone did this thing? Two, would this help or hinder the movement toward complexity?” – Khaderbhai
(Complexity meaning God)
What I found more relevant in everyday life: there are no good or bad people. There are only “good deeds” and “bad deeds” and the sum of those deeds – the actions we perform – are what make us into someone good or bad”
I love the answer “What would happens if everyone did this?”. What would happen if everyone stockpiled? What would happen if everyone passed on the mis-information and fear? What would happen if everyone followed the guidelines on hand washing? What would happen if everyone looked out for and helped each other? Food for thought - stock pile that!
Together in Isolation
Finding Certainty in Uncertain Times :
Living during Coronavirus pandemic
Dedicated to every beings happiness on the UNs International Day of Happiness March 20th.
Shaileen Shah - Happiness Coach - Happy Life Habits
I reached out to my communities to ask what tips, practices, ways where they dealing with and coping with the pandemic. These are ordinary people like you and me - Humans. They are also extraordinary as you will see when you read, contemplate or hear their contributions. They are from a mix of faiths, nations, ages, genders, experiences, vocations including retired, pharmacists, dentists, finance/investment people, change makers, consultants, coaches, facilitators, trainers, teachers, volunteers, accountants, journalists, technologists, yoga teachers, healers, carers and home makers. I have compiled some of the overall themes that have been shared as well as my own thoughts and then some of the detailed sharing all of which help finding certainty in uncertain times. They all relate to the 4 human dimensions of Physical, Mental, Social/Emotion and Spiritual (see previous articles) and some are the basics we all know we should do.
CONTROL THE CONTROLLABLES
Focus on the things that you can control - all of the below suggestions
Control your energy; focus on higher energies
Finances - review income and expenses (see note later)
Remember the Serenity Prayer
“God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.”
ROUTINE
Our routines, plans and structures are likely to have been disrupted. Creatively develop empowering happy life habits that supplement new ways to do old things or replace old routines
Replace the routines of checking email, watching the news, refreshing the news or stock market webpages, social media, whatsapp messages etc every 5 mins. Switch off notifications and schedule and limit time when you will do these activities
Plan , organise and also be like a yoga teacher in your approach - be flexible
Do not forward everything you receive about the virus. Except of course awesome articles/ emails like this one.
Join the 21 Day Challenge
HEALTH
Eat sensibly - fresh fruit/veg
Hydrate well
Sleep well - get adequate rest and sleep to rejuvenate
Avoid toxins
Keep exercising
Keep breathing deeply
Keep washing hands as per advice
CONNECTION
Find ways to stay connected, in touch as alternative to the physical face to face. Use technology - Facetime, video conferencing, messaging apps, phone call, email (do remember the schedule/limit time aspect)
Really deeply listen
MINDFULNESS & PRESENT MOMENT
Be aware of your feelings, emotions, thoughts - don’t dwell on the dis-empowering, low energy ones - feel, observe, acknowledge and choose to change to more empowering high energy ones
Be present
LEARNING
Adapt, grow, develop, experiment and learn
Follow the science, be informed
Take opportunity to learn a new skill, revive and old one
Watch videos (TED etc), listen to podcasts, join courses, read books, enjoy poetry
REFLECTION, GRATITUDE AND JOURNALLING
Reflect
Practice gratitude - like make of the other practices mentioned it helps well being and resilience
Do some journalling - great to express, capture and learn from
KINDNESS
Be kind
Do kind, thoughtful acts
Be kind to yourself, be kind to your nearest and dearest, be kind to others
Viruses are contagious; so is panic, fear, hysteria; love, kindness, joy; choose wisely
NATURE
Spend time in nature - walk in park, down the road, garden
Get some fresh air and sunshine
See some greenery, hear some birds singing
Look at the sly, clouds, stars, moon
Observe the changing of the seasons
SPIRITUALITY & FAITH
Dive deeper into your spirituality or faith
Sing songs, Bhakti & Jaap (devotional songs)
Recite Prayers, Mantras and contemplate the meaning
Meditate
Keep Faith
Help and Serve others
Stay aware
HUMOUR & FEEL GOOD
Smile - it increases your face value!
This poem was chosen and read out by a young student at the last Jain School assembly we had before the school classes were cancelled due to the Virus. Some attribute it to Spike Milligan and some to Jez Alborough. Either way it is a lovely poem.
Smiling is infectious
You can catch it like the flu
When someone smiled at me today
I started smiling too
I walked around the corner
And someone saw me grin
When he smiled I realised
I had passed it on to him
I thought about the smile
And then realised its worth
A single smile like mine
Could travel round the earth
So if you feel a smile begin
Don’t leave it undetected
Start an epidemic
And get the world infected.
Read a good book, listen to your favourite music, watch your favourite film
Practice Laughter Yoga
Share a joke such as this one that I saw on Facebook …
They drove us mad with Corona...
We have become crazy.
I went to the bathroom at a restaurant.
I washed my hands, opened the door with my elbow,
I raised the toilet seat with my foot,
I switched on the water faucet with a tissue then opened the bathroom door to leave with my elbowand when I returned to my table I realized....
I forgot to pull up my pants!!!
“Stay centred, be compassionate, be in touch with people around you”
My friend Vicky Johnson, Co-Founder of The Museum of Happiness has recorded these thoughts and advice especially for this article. Really a great recording of some science and practical tools to use. It covers surfing the waves, no mud no lotus, 3 systems - Drive, Threat and Soothe - really useful, Energy management, self care and a gem (pun intended) of an idea about diamonds. Vicky hosts a weekly Facebook live on Happiness and Self Care.
Summarised tips contributed by volunteer teachers from Shree Chandana Vidhya Peeth Jain School (SCVP):
Prayers : Navkar Mantra, Uvaasagaharam (Healing Prayer)
Singing/Chanting: Stavans, Bhakti, Mantras
Help Others
Positivity
Pranayam - Breathing
Acceptance
Keep Calm
Read and follow the evidence based information
Do not stockpile
Thanks to contributions from our SCVP volunteer teachers : Rita Shah, Sandip Shah, Ketan Varia, Tejas Udani, Rajeev Shah, Manjri Shah, Rasila Shah, Sonal Dadia, Vaishali Mehta, Hina Vora and Kajal Sheth
“Three Thoughts for these times
*Universal Friendship • Truth • Inner Peace*
*Universal Friendship*
Awareness of the timeless idea that all living beings are equal to us and capable of the same spiritual heights generates the attitude of universal friendship. This compels us to care for all, to be considerate, to avoid selfish behaviour. As we live through these times, let’s ground ourselves in this ideal, knows as Maitri, Miti, or Metta. Let’s serve the vulnerable in our communities. Let’s be considerate when shopping. Let’s be loving and kind despite any fear or pain, wishing that all are well, happy and wise, in these times and at alk times.
*Truth*
Truth must be kind, otherwise it fails a deeper test. Today we are seeking to blame and judge. We lazily let our prejudices rise up and unwillingly spread hate, such as language which blames the Chinese or the Meat eaters. If there is an action to blame, let us become awake and aware, but let’s also practice kindness and hygiene in our thoughts and words. Many are using the opportunity to speak of the superiority of Hindu, Jain or Vegan lifestyles. Let’s celebrate the nobility, yes, but let’s keep away the unkindness, superiority, judgement and othering of souls who are on journeys just as we are.
Truth must also be discriminating and judicious. With modern social media, we are often sharing hoaxes or untested ideas about the Corona Virus, Covid 19. We are also unwittingly sharing unkind messages of judgement and othering. How can we separate and divide ourselves from souls just like us?
*Inner Peace*
Within us, innately, we are peace, bliss and love. Let’s connect within so we can face the challenges of today with fortitude, equanimity, truth and universal friendship. Self-care is also very important. Our daily spiritual practice will ensure we remain maintain inner balance, and manifest virtues grounded in deep truths which ensure we live in harmony with all other souls.
”
“I wasn’t planning on sending this email.
In fact, I wasn’t planning on writing anything about the coronavirus. The truth is, I am finding it hard to focus on anything in this present moment.
The uncertainty has me unsettled.
The present is constantly overshadowed by thoughts of the future. What if my friends or family get the virus? What if our city goes into full lockdown mode? How is the world going to recover?
Feeling overwhelmed, I turned to my journal and reflected on past moments of uncertainty.
I started making a list of things to remember, things that could ground me, bring perspective and return me to the present.
I wanted to send these to you in an email in case there is something in here that resonates with you — but also because I’d love to hear how you are coping.
Here are a few items from the list:
Meditation. Impermanence, or anicca as it is called in the Buddhist tradition, is the idea that things are constantly changing. And that we can observe that change without becoming consumed by it. A core concept behind Vipassana meditation and mindfulness is to experience the feeling of anicca in your own body by becoming aware of your bodily sensations without reacting to them with desire or aversion. Practicing this during meditation helps prepare us so that when we are met with unexpected sensations or experiences in our everyday lives, we are better prepared to experience them with a healthy level of perspective and equanimity. I have been returning to meditation regularly these past few weeks to help recenter me.
Practice gratitude. This may sound counter-intuitive when it seems like there’s more to be scared, angry or anxious about. But I come back to these words from Brother David Steindl-Rast: “I didn’t say we can be grateful for everything. I said we can be grateful in every given moment…” It is not that we need to be grateful for the virus or the school closings or the delayed travel plans. But every single moment has something that we can give thanks for, if we open ourselves up to it. Our breath — which reminds us that we have the opportunity to be here and be present — is a perfect example.
Journaling. Just writing things down does wonders to help me sort through and get to the bottom of how I am actually feeling. This email is a perfect example. It started with a rant answering the seemingly simple question I am prompted with every time I open my journaling app: “Hey Dave, how are you feeling today?” Getting these thoughts out of my head and onto the page is a way of acknowledging the thoughts that are racing around my head. And as I acknowledge the thoughts, I notice that they begin to quiet.
Support each other. In difficult times, it’s easy to think we are alone, especially with the currently prescribed “social distancing”. Reach out to those you care about — but instead of just trading fears and anxieties, try bringing a positive element to the conversation. Let your loved ones know you are thinking about them and tell them something you appreciate about them. Spreading the love is a great way to feel the love. Support others and you will feel supported.
”
“Finances
People are worried about their finances - especially because they may be forced to take unpaid leave, go into voluntary isolation, quarantine. People’s financial position varies significantly. Everyone has been impacted financially, whether this is your pension value reduced by 20 - 30%, income reduced, etc. There is no one size fits all approach but any number of the following steps may help you towards staving off anxiety:
(1) Work out monthly expenditure and identify areas where you can reduce your expenses.
(2) Look at your savings so you can plan for expenditure if income is compromised
(3) If you have credit card debt, contact the lender to ask for a payment holiday with interest frozen
(4) If you need extra money in the short term ask your bank to increase your overdraft limit and reduce charges
(5) If you will struggle with your mortgage due to loss of income talk to your lender. The key thing is not to worry about things, reach out for support and advice. You are not alone.”
From friends linked on Face Book
Vikrant Jain: It shall pass
Or
It shall pass and Hopefully we as humanity n individual will come out stronger by end of itDeepa Shah: If you are 'having' downtime, reframe it as a positive!
So many things to replenish, rejuvenate and restore your body, mind and spirit:
1. Read inspiring and uplifting books, articles or listen to podcasts.
2. Practicing relaxation either tapping, guided relaxation or meditation.
3. Practice some yogasana slowly with breath awareness and pranayama.Beejal Coulson: It’s important to have neutrality in the mind and generate peace rather than attempt to generate a positive mind in uncertain times. The practice of meditation is vital in these challenging times. Self care is vital. Where your attention goes is where your energy and focus goes so be mindful where you place your attention.
Kevin Gosling:
1 Don't panic and remain reasoned and sensible
2 Enjoy life to the full as don't know what tomorrow will bring
3 Family , friends and loved ones should always come firstTamzin Doggart: Even dark times are a possibility. Someone else has just posted: Just a reminder that when Shakespeare was quarantined because of the plague, he wrote King Lear.
Nilesh Tarpo Shah: Be positive for negativity is all taken
Minal Shah: I am self isolating.
So already had some time to do things I never get round to doing... Although limited somewhat by symptoms.
Wash hands with alertness, paying attention to how you do it rather than a regular ritual.
You can still go for a walk as long as you don't make contact with others to get fresh air, exercise and to keep calm and carry on.
Be thankful for each opportunity.Jyoti Mehta: Keep a routine of sorts. Still set your alarm clock for a certain time. And go for a walk!
Bindi Shah: Remain in equanimity
“Cultivating an Inner Resource - Meditation
Creating a safe space within you where you feel a sense of ease, well-being, resiliency, wholeness, balance, peace, groundedness…
It’s a felt sense within your body that may be evoked by a memory of a person, place or thing or something that you have imagined or a visualisation. Maybe a place in nature, a sacred object, sounds, activities etc. It doesn’t matter what it is, just choose something that brings you a sense of peace, security and well-being.
As you form your Inner Resource, reflect on people, animals, objects and phrases that help you embed and recall in your mind your Inner Resource. Conjure up sounds, taste, smells and other qualities that help you to access your inner resource.
Take time to embody your Inner Resource throughout the day. It builds your capacity to welcome every experience as a flow of changing movements within your unchanging Being. It enables you to experience a sense of well-being no matter your circumstance.
”
“1. Be mindful of all your feelings – I think it is important not to suppress or deny your feelings, and its equally important to remember that feelings aren’t facts. Make friends with your feelings and then decide which ones to act on and how you want to act on them
2. Keep a sense of humour – there is always lots to laugh about, and finding the comedic in what is going on is often one of the most powerful ways to lift your spirits and actually stay well. Laughter can be the best medicine
3. Stay in the here and now – right now you are probably fine and most likely will be. Simply deal with what is in front of you in this moment and try not to be too anxious for the future that may not happen
4. Follow the practical advice – don’t take unnecessary risks and also recognise reality of the limits to your ability to protect yourself. Accept that there are many things you simply cannot control”
“1) you can reduce the risk, you can’t remove it
2) you being in fear will help no one because you will make bad, irrational decisions from your fear
3) look after yourself, look after others, keep your compassion and humanity”
“ Anitya (everything other than the soul is temporary)
and asuchi ( the body is a host to many diseases, etc)
and maitri (universal friendship towards the virus as it is also a soul, just like us)
Contemplations on bhavnas (reflections on reality)”
“How to reduce fear, anxiety and paranoia over the CV
There are two simple things I’d like to share.
1. Fear weakens the immune system
2. Love and happiness boosts it.
So how can you find your way from Fear to Love?
And find your way back to feeling balanced and calm.
One of the things that works well for me and my clients is to stimulate two acupressure points at the same time as taking deep calming breaths.
Take the first two fingers of one hand and press them firmly in between your eyebrows.
At the same time take the first two fingers of the other hand and press firmly in the middle of your chest.
And then breathe.
Take some deep calming breaths and feel yourself start to relax.
From this place of relaxation tune into your inner wisdom to make wise judgements from peace and calm and not from fear.
Feel into the truth of what is being said.
”
“Given I’ve chosen to self-isolate I am focusing on self-care practices:
Allow myself to sleep lots
Stay connected to good friends
Challenge myself neither to judge others behaviours nor fall into the herd mindset”
“ It is perfectly normal to feel anxious at this time. Try making inner space to allow the feeling to come and and go, with as much love and compassion and acceptance you can. And holding that feeling, focus on taking meaningful action that can support you and others at this time. Compassion for all, including yourself, is very much called for at this time. We are all in this together.”
“It has been an interesting to observe the processing of this inner landscape over these past couple of weeks . Feelings of helplessness, fear, perplexity, anxiousness and more. Most interesting has been how these emotions arrive and pass. For many years now, I stopped reading /listening to news.. in any format... whatever needs to get known will come my way, was the philosophy. Naturally, the enormity of these changing tunes has drawn me, almost involuntarily , into the news stream, and i have quickly realised the inward psychological effect this was having. One can certainly not live in ignorance during these times, but I’m trying hard, to limit reading every message, article, story. Instead, am Being selective in what I absorb and reading the main news on BBC/Sky at the beginning and evening of every day. This has enormously been supportive in maintaining a balanced calm response to all that is unfolding.
Staying positive isn’t easy, yet, I’ve found the numerous stories of love and kindness taking place across the globe has been deeply reassuring and healing. It restores the faith in humanity and that we are whole as one. Of course, on a day to day practical level when we see people hoarding and accumulating for their own greed, I need to dig deep and let go of judgement , instead keep my heart open to hold compassion for their fear of scarcity. My responsibility remains in taking full responsibility for my own actions.
This leads on to the other practice, of actively praying and seeking forgiveness from Mother Earth, for myself and on behalf of others, for failing to respect everything she’s offered. The biggest learning has been how this is a powerful reminder for us as humans to be humble and to hold humility. For us to remember we are one and are not superior to each other or as a species. Ultimately I see this Pandemic as Nature’s way to remind us of this and bring rebalance.”
Trishna Shah a friend who is a Service Space volunteer and hosts Awakin Circles in London has shared a few poems that she has received that have been penned during this pandemic.
Lockdown
Yes there is fear.
Yes there is isolation.
Yes there is panic buying.
Yes there is sickness.
Yes there is even death.
But,
They say that in Wuhan after so many years of noise
You can hear the birds again.
They say that after just a few weeks of quiet
The sky is no longer thick with fumes
But blue and grey and clear.
They say that in the streets of Assisi
People are singing to each other
across the empty squares,
keeping their windows open
so that those who are alone
may hear the sounds of family around them.
They say that a hotel in the West of Ireland
Is offering free meals and delivery to the housebound.
Today a young woman I know
is busy spreading fliers with her number
through the neighbourhood
So that the elders may have someone to call on.
Today Churches, Synagogues, Mosques and Temples
are preparing to welcome
and shelter the homeless, the sick, the weary
All over the world people are slowing down and reflecting
All over the world people are looking at their neighbours in a new way
All over the world people are waking up to a new reality
To how big we really are.
To how little control we really have.
To what really matters.
To Love.
So we pray and we remember that
Yes there is fear.
But there does not have to be hate.
Yes there is isolation.
But there does not have to be loneliness.
Yes there is panic buying.
But there does not have to be meanness.
Yes there is sickness.
But there does not have to be disease of the soul
Yes there is even death.
But there can always be a rebirth of love.
Wake to the choices you make as to how to live now.
Today, breathe.
Listen, behind the factory noises of your panic
The birds are singing again
The sky is clearing,
Spring is coming,
And we are always encompassed by Love.
Open the windows of your soul
And though you may not be able
to touch across the empty square,
Sing.
— Fr. Richard Hendrick, OFM
March 13th 2020”
Pandemic
What if you thought of it
as the Jews consider the Sabbath—
the most sacred of times?
Cease from travel.
Cease from buying and selling.
Give up, just for now,
on trying to make the world
different than it is.
Sing. Pray. Touch only those
to whom you commit your life.
Center down.
And when your body has become still,
reach out with your heart.
Know that we are connected
in ways that are terrifying and beautiful.
(You could hardly deny it now.)
Know that our lives
are in one another’s hands.
(Surely, that has come clear.)
Do not reach out your hands.
Reach out your heart.
Reach out your words.
Reach out all the tendrils
of compassion that move, invisibly,
where we cannot touch.
Promise this world your love--
for better or for worse,
in sickness and in health,
so long as we all shall live."
--Lynn Ungar
Together in Isolation
Finding Certainty in Uncertain Times :
Living during Coronavirus pandemic
Dedicated to every beings happiness on the UNs International Day of Happiness March 20th.
Shaileen Shah - Happiness Coach - Happy Life Habits
Received over social media
In conclusion I hope this collection of thoughts, insights, ideas, meditations, poems, audio, quotes, sharings, actions, tips, habits, reflections that have graciously contributed to give an feeling of Togetherness in Isolation, help you find certainty in uncertain times. I have enjoyed the 2.5 full on days it has taken to collect, compile and structure this article. It has helped me focus, stay inspired and motivated. I have learnt new things, enjoyed feeling connected and have the certainty that we are in this together.
Any positive comments please share immediately, any negative please wait till after pandemic - got enough to deal with at the moment.
Have a Happy UN International Day of Happiness on March 20th.
I am grateful to all the people from my communities who responded to my request of tips on how they are dealing with the pandemic. Many contributions have been included in the article but I have not included all. In no particular order my thanks go out to :
Harshna Shah, Rita Shah, Sandip Shah, Ketan Varia, Tejas Udani, Rajeev Shah, Manjri Shah, Rasila Shah, Sonal Dadia, Vaishali Mehta, Hina Vora, Kajal Sheth, Jigna Deepesh Shah, Priti Shah, Seetal Popat, Vikrant Jain, Deepa Shah, Ravi Khanna, Beejal Coulson, Kevin Gosling, Tamzin Doggart, Nilesh Tarpo Shah, Minal Shah, Jyoti Mehta, Bindi Shah, Vishal Shah, Devi Savla, Sanjay Shah, Priya Ramesh Shah, Sidharth Shah, Niraj Shah, Mita Shah, Trishna Shah, Vicky Johnson, Shamash Alidina, Jane Jackson, Ashik Shah, Ani Devlia, Jeff Krasno, Dave Radparvar.
Apologies if I have missed anyone - it happens - I’m human ( well actual a spiritual being having a human experience).
I am holding free virtual group happiness coaching circles during the pandemic where we focus on happy practices like ones mentioned in this article and also include some of the contributors.. If interested get in touch. See also https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/events-and-workshops
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
Resources
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page
Happy Life Habits WhatsApp Group
Coronavirus and Our Common Humanity Commune with Jeff Krasno
BBC Coronavirus: How to protect your mental health
Action for Happiness: Covid 19 how to respond
Vicky Johnson Museum of Happiness Weekly Happiness and Self care Facebook Live
Instagram on CoronaVirus Niraj Shah - co-founder Mind: Unlocked
Shamash Alidina, Co-Founder of The Museum Of Happiness and Mindfulness Teacher
Nick Wiiliams offering thought leader on Inspired Leadership and author of 18 books
Jane Jackson, Soul Coach and Emotional Healer
Sanjay Shah, Emotional Intelligence Speaker, Coach, Trainer
Mita Shah, Yoga teacher and Awakin Circle Host
Beejal Shah, Rapid Transformation Therapist and Creator of Quantum Life Technique
Priti Shah, Regional Director LightSide Financial - Debt Solutions
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
About the Author
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good; supporting the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.