When growing up I remember how my parents knew their neighbors. They knew the names of the parents, the kids, the pets, the ages and where they worked and went to school. Today we have lost some of this synergism of being a great neighbor. We may wave to our neighbor as we go to work and wave when we get home. While considering your neighbor relationship are they a stranger, acquaintance, or friend? Durning the past few years I have realized neighboring relationships go beyond the boundaries of your home and exist where ever we have the opportunity to meet other people. 

My blessing has been to take part in a series of classes starting with "Rooted" and has evolved into neighboring. The video below gives you just a small taste of where you could take your neighboring. Good Luck on Your Neighboring Journey! GRC

The people on these recordings are not actors but real people who have dedicated their lives to improve themselves. Their struggles and success is authentic, emotional, and rewarding for all our mentors who take part in the recovery path based upon faith.

Essential Stress-Relief Tips for Self-Isolating Families
 
The pandemic has created many challenges for families as they struggle to navigate new situations every day. One common issue among those who are self-isolating is the rise of tension within the household. Sharing space with your family members for long periods of time can be difficult when stressors create agitation, depression, or anxiety, so it’s crucial to look for ways to alleviate those feelings. You might look for resources from organizations like Mentors of Bethany, which offers programs for individuals and families that reinforce self-worth and offer guidance for various life events. You can also take steps to find relief from work stress, which will help you balance your physical and mental health.
 
Manage your time wisely
 
Many individuals who work in management positions are under a lot of stress; in fact, according to a recent survey, of managers feel that most of their stress comes from a lack of time management and the inability to find work/life balance. Having several employees to manage, keeping up with increasing demand while being understaffed, and ensuring that your business stays afloat during a pandemic can all contribute to overwhelming feelings of stress. Look for ways to set boundaries and limits where work is concerned, especially at home. Take steps to get organized in order to save time, and look for tech that will help you manage your time wisely whether you’re at work or at home.
 
Find a few moments for you
 
It can be difficult to find time to yourself when you’re isolating with your family, but it’s important--and beneficial--to look for ways you can get alone time. Managing your time more wisely during the day can help you carve out thirty minutes to an hour for something you truly enjoy, such as practicing a hobby or finding a quiet moment to read. If you’re a busy manager who often works through lunch, make it a point to start taking your breaks every day and let your employees know that this is your time so you can limit interruptions.
 
Get outside
 
Isolating due to the pandemic can leave anyone feeling pent-up and irritated, so it’s important to get outside as often as possible. You might take a walk during your alone-time, or get the entire family outdoors for a group activity, such as a game. Spending time outside can boost your mental and physical health and help you stay active, which can help you feel better overall. Not only that, it can help you and your loved ones sleep better at night, especially if you’re getting exercise at the same time. Make it a point to get outside when the weather is nice, even if it’s only for a few minutes a day, and take safety precautions in public spaces.
 
Optimize your home
 
Even factoring in outside time, spending a lot of time inside your home can eventually become overwhelming, especially if the rooms aren’t optimized for your mental health. Giving each room a good deep clean and removingclutter is a good way to make sure the space works with you rather than against you, and this can also help you get organized and save time on busy mornings. If you work from home, make sure your office or workspace is neat and that everything you need is accessible. Take a look at your bedroom, as well, and take steps to make it the perfect place to get good rest by removing devices, adding blackout curtains, and investing in an air purifier so you can breathe easy.
 
Isolating with your family can be challenging over time, but by taking steps to keep everyone’s mental health in a good place, you can make it a much smoother process. Think of this as a way to spend more quality time with one another and look for fun activities to do together, such as family game night.
 
Need to get in touch with Mentors of Bethany? Fill out the contact form in the website. info@mentorsofbethany.org
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