Right now, the notion of “normal” and what might look like in a post-COVID-19 world is almost unfathomable, in part because the pandemic has touched almost everything, from mundane daily life (queues to enter grocery stores) to federal policymaking (the Canada Emergency Response Benefit) to broader thinking about what, exactly, constitutes an “essential” service.
It’s hard to make sense of it all. Yet we all know things are cyclical, even earth-shattering pandemics – see 1918’s Spanish flu for proof – and that, eventually, schools and businesses will reopen, people will return to work, and everyday inconveniences will once again come to dominate the dinner table Discussion.
Still, in this somewhat surreal moment between what used to be and what will be, it is well worth asking the question: how will the Back on Track community prepare for family and community recovery after the dangers of COVID-19 have subsided?
1) Here are three ideas to consider now: The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), Canada’s largest nonprofit organization with over 110,000 members, is “dedicated to creating and supporting an environment where your business can succeed.” Their website is a trove of information with regular updates on the latest government relief measures as well as a deep FAQ section accessible to all. While the federal government as well as the opposition has shown remarkable dexterity in implementing policies to counter the negative impacts of the pandemic, it can be hard staying abreast of developments. This site can help.
2) Many organizations such as the Canadian Kennel Club and Equestrian Canada are also offering valuable user-friendly online information. For instance, Equestrian Canada notes that as of March 18, 2020, students, family, and friends are not explicitly allowed on equestrian facilities during the pandemic – “including but not limited to boarding stables and lesson barns.” Such knowledge can stop small business owners from inadvertently running afoul of the law as they scramble to manage multiple problems simultaneously. Similarly, the CKC site dives deep into the subject of animals and COVID-19, offering recommendations for personal deportment in multiple scenarios such as if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or are dealing with animals in or from other countries.
3) On a human level, numerous charities nationwide are rising to meet the personal and mental health challenges posed by COVID-19, from Kids Help Phone to Anxiety Canada to Your Life Counts. Resources such as these (and many more visits) offer support for those experiencing stress and fear over the pandemic without judgment or cost. And social media – so often maligned as the ultimate time waster – can provide a virtual lifeline for those dealing with the pandemic, especially those shuttered at home, while allowing the free trade of tips on things like managing chronic pain in the absence of a masseuse or chiropractor. (Hint: guided breathwork, meditation or gentle yoga, led online by trained instructors).
Preparation for what might be coming, though speculative, nevertheless provides a sense of control in wildly uncertain times. Being proactive is rarely bad advice. We would be grateful if our community would share how they are preparing on our FaceBook and Instagram pages.
Links:
https://botcanada.com/product-category/your-health/
https://www.canadahelps.org/en/donate-to-coronavirus-outbreak-response/
