Small things can go a long way towards taking care of yourself and making best decisions for children and family.  

• Take 60 seconds to focus on breathing.   
• Give yourself three minutes dancing to a favorite song.   
• Find five minutes to reflect.   
• Seven minutes to say a poem, prayer, mantra. 
• Ten minutes to walk around the block.   

Each of these can reduce stress and help you collect your thoughts.  

Giving yourself the time and space to ask yourself what you need is a first step. Here are some questions to think about:  

• Are there ways that I can slow down?   
• What am I really feeling? What worries me, what gives me hope?
• What do I need?
• What do I need to prioritize and what do I need to defer?  
• Who are the people and organizations that support me?  
• Am I living into my values and priorities?  
• What can I do to lower my and my children’s risk for COVID-19?   
• Am I ready for this change? It’s okay to take some time to decide this.  

Thinking of concrete methods of how to get support and lower risk can help to manage anxiety. Slowing down can give you a break from stress and build resilience. It also is helpful to remember that you or your children might not be ready to change your school routine. It’s okay to wait until you are.   

You are not alone. The Safe + Strong Helpline at 1-800-923-HELP (4357) can help you find the resources you need. Help is free and available 24/7.  

Full original Oregon Health Authority Article found here.

As the COVID-19 vaccine continues to roll out to the community, it is important to continue to take precautions, wear your mask and follow the Activity Sector Risk Level Guidance Chart provided by the State. Please observe the guidelines for High Risk found below.