Minimize Your Stress While Social Distancing

With constant news updates regarding coronavirus, or COVID-19, and a drastic change in many people’s daily lives, times are tough right now. Many people have switched from working in an office to on their couch and some have even lost their jobs due to this global pandemic. Parents are now trying to meet deadlines, watch their children, prepare meals, and keep up with daily chores. Aside from being ordered to stay at home, folks are in constant fear for themselves and loved ones.

It’s certainly difficult to keep up with the new normal.

Here are some tips on how to keep your cool during these troublesome times.

1. Give yoga a try.

Not only is yoga a wonderful way to relieve tension, but many of the exercises stretch your muscles and joints. And guess what? You don’t even have to leave your house to practice yoga. There are tons of online videos teaching poses of yoga from beginner to expert level. Sessions can range from 10 minutes to an hour or more. Simply doing 10 minutes of yoga in the morning will get your body and mind motivated for the day.

2. Let your mind rest.

Daily meditation is a great way to pause your mind — even just for 15 minutes. Meditation promotes mindfulness which in return can reduce stress and tension. Find a time in your day when it’s quiet and meditate for however long you deem necessary. Stick with this daily and you’re sure to see a decline in stress levels.

3. Write it down.

Keeping a journal during this time is a positive and healthy way to sort through thoughts and emotions. Simply writing about your day (how it went, what you’re grateful for, etc.) or daily reminders before bed can allow you to sleep peacefully through the night and wake up refreshed.

4. Pick up a hobby.

With the stay-at-home order in place, many people are finding themselves bored; the best way you can spend your time right now is to find a hobby you enjoy. There are endless options out there — from crafting to putting together puzzles. Perhaps you enjoyed painting, but lost motivation or never had the time. Well, now is your chance to pick up the paintbrush again.

5. Get your body moving.

Exercise is well-known to combat stress. Despite gyms being closed, you can still get your regular daily exercise at home. Try an at-home exercise session via YouTube or search for simple exercises to do without gym equipment. And don’t forget, you can still get outside for a walk, run or jog.

These times of uncertainty are nerve-racking and it can be difficult to create new routines, but with these tips in mind, you can avoid going stir crazy in your own home.

Don’t forget, we’re here to help and our conversations are confidential.