Practicing Self-Care
During these tough and uncertain times, it is a natural response to be overwhelmed. Many people will feel increased emotions including feeling scared, anxious, worried, stressed, disappointed and confused. The more we focus on what is out of our control, the more stressed and anxious we begin to feel. Therefore, it is extremely important to practice self-care during this difficult time.
Here are a few ways to do so:
1. Take care of your body
Although feelings of stress might come with the urge to snack on junk food, make sure to eat healthy and well-balanced meals every day. We encourage you to eat together with others in your home or even via video chat. Maintaining healthy relationships with those around you will help you get through this situation.
Exercise regularly. There is plenty of online yoga, HIIT and other workout classes you could follow from the comfort of your home.
Be sure to get plenty of sleep, and maintain a schedule!
Also, do avoid tobacco, alcohol and other drugs.
2. Take breaks
Find ways to relax, unwind and remind yourself that these strong feelings will fade.
Reduce your screen time, and try to do a hobby you can do at home! If you do not have an indoor hobby, now would be the perfect time to find a new one. It could be anything- arts and crafts, gardening, puzzles or even learning a new language online.
A few minutes of a break during a work shift can be calming. Even a 5-minute walk can improve energy and focus. Click here to learn more about maintaining your mental well-being while working from home.
You can try planning family activities like reading a book aloud together, playing a board/video game or even creating an indoor scavenger hunt.
3. Stay informed, but at a limit
When you feel that you are missing information, you may become more stressed or nervous so be well informed on the important parts. Nevertheless, remember that receiving non-stop news on your TV or smartphone about COVID-19 might just add to your stress. We advise you to not share information you can’t prove to be true on social media, as you do not want to instill unnecessary fear or stress in others too.
Take breaks from watching or listening to news stories as it can be upsetting to hear about the crisis repeatedly. Make sure to do enjoyable activities as much as possible.
4. Connect with others
Share your concerns and feelings with a friend or family member. Healthy relationships with your loved ones help build a strong support system. Whether it is a family member or best friend, have someone you can honestly express your emotions too.
On that note, be a good friend too. Call and check on others' emotional and physical well-being. If you can, video chat with friends and loved ones who live outside your household.
5. Seek help when needed
If distress impacts activities of your daily life for several days or weeks, talk to a counsellor, or doctor, or contact us at Naluri to speak to a psychologist.
