Below are six tips to help you feel calmer, healthier and more connected.
Remember that during this time anything that we can do in our lives will help our wellness.
Please keep in mind, these suggestions are not all or nothing. Life at home may feel topsy-turvy so do what you can, when you can. Something is better than nothing!
1. Still try and work time in to exercise – Take a walk, jog or find a class online. There are many options besides the gym if you still are not able to attend. Make exercise a priority not only for your physical health but for the calming effect it has on your mind and mood.
2. Reach out to friends and family - We all understand that we are still all busy trying to work, deal with the children, etc. but even the shortest phone call, face time or zoom call can mean the world of difference to someone. A quick "are you okay, I was thinking of you" can make a huge difference in someones day.
3. Cook healthy meals and have healthy snacks in the fridge – Less activity often leads to more snacking. Use the time typically spent traveling home from work to prepare healthy meals and snacks. Healthy eating is a protective factor that helps us stay physically and emotionally well. Have a container of cut up vegetables or chicken bites that you can grab instead of an unhealthy option.
4. Get more sleep – For many people, the hectic pace of daily life does not include sufficient sleep. With many activities still canceled, use this time to go to sleep earlier. Choose a bedtime at the beginning of the day and adjust your schedule to stay on track. Sleep is an essential component for a healthy body and mind.
5. Pamper your hands – With so much hand washing and cleaning, your hands may be dry and chapped. If this describes your hands, perhaps treat your hands to a hand bath of soothing lotion with a relaxing scent like lavender. Don’t have any lotion? Apply a small amount of Vaseline or olive oil.
6. Be compassionate to others – Take time to show compassion and care for others; people we know and strangers. Even the briefest smile, hello, conversation at the grocery till can have a significantly positive impact on someone – and you will benefit from being compassionate too. Being compassionate has been shown to improve physical and emotional health.
There is much we can do to make our days healthy and meaningful. Recognize the silver lining and use this opportunity to care for yourself and those around you.