To say this is a difficult time for all would be an understatement. With the continuous growth of the COVID-19 outbreak, emotions such as stress and anxiety are running high throughout households all over the world. With newscasts streaming all day long on our T.V.’s. and constant death toll updates popping up all over social media, it can feel suffocating. But with the shelter at home order put in place, we hope the curve will soon flatten and life can go back to normal. Until then, we have a few tips on how to make your time at home the most beneficial for your body, mind and soul. It’s called self-care.
A self-care routine is important whether there’s a stressful situation going on or not, but many people neglect the opportunity to take part in one because of the amount of work they have or the lack of free time. But, now that everyone is home (for the most part!), this is a great opportunity to start a routine that will last even after the pandemic is over. Here’s five steps to get you started!
- Finding Time to Relax
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Although many of us may not have actual places to be during the day such as work or school, that doesn’t mean we’re solely lounging around. Students still have online class and homework, and many of us are also working from home. With that being said, it is important to set aside some time to relax and unwind. You can do this in whatever way makes you feel good, whether that be reading a book, meditating, taking a walk, etc. It’s important to give your brain a rest from thinking a million miles a minute, especially for those of us feeling anxiety about the current situation.
- Tending to Your Physical Health
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We hear on the news everyday how people who are immune compromised are at higher risk of contracting COVID-19, so while you’re at home, it’s in your best interest to try to raise your immune system and to keep your physical health in check. It has been shown that eating foods such as citrus fruits, almonds, green tea and probiotic yogurt can help boost your immune system.
In addition, exercising on a regular basis during this time will not only help keep you in shape, but can also be an excellent opportunity for stress relief. Getting active can make the shelter in place order feel less restricting and will make you feel as if you’re doing the most you can with the situation you’re given, instead of laying in bed all day (which we all will do some days, of course). A local yoga studio in San Luis Obispo, Spark Yoga, is offering free classes for those trying to get active at home, check out their website here. - Creating and Maintaining a Quality Skincare Routine
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As much as we all miss going out, quarantine has given us a chance to live in sweatpants and no makeup, which has been sort of a blessing. It’s important, regardless of the times, to give your skin some time to breath without layers of makeup being put on everyday. Quarantine is a perfect time to give your skin some extra love and work on your skin care routine (if needed!).
If there’s something you’re unhappy with, such as acne, redness, uneven texture, etc. now is the perfect time to test out new products that could help. But, be sure to do your research first. Personally, I like to look up skincare routines for my skin type online to see what professionals recommend and go from there. You can also take this skincare quiz on Sephora’s website to get some quick recommendations!
- Journaling Everyday
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This one may already be a habit for some of you, but if not, this is the time to start! Since we should avoid going out and buying a journal, you can order one on Amazon for under $10 and get it in just a few days! Whether you decide to write in the morning, before bed, or simply when you’re bored, try to do it at least once a day.
Research has shown journaling is extremely beneficial to your mental health. It can help you relieve stress, get to know yourself better and organize your thoughts. What’s more, you’ll be documenting your life right now in these strange times to look back on in the future and remind yourself to be grateful for the little things, such as going to the beach and hanging out with friends.
- Exploring a New Hobby
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Whether it be drawing, sewing, cooking, gardening or something else, picking up a new hobby is a form of self-care many people look over. Not only does this stimulate your brain to learn something new, but it also can help you get to know yourself better. If you try something out and don’t find it stimulating, drop it! There’s no shame in quitting a hobby if it isn’t bringing you joy. Try another one! We have more time to ourselves right now, so take advantage of it and try something you’ve always wanted to.
There may not be any in-person classes you can attend right now to work on these new activities, but most companies have moved to online classes with many of them being free! As far as supplies go, Michaels is still open for curbside pickup. Simply go on their website and use their store locator to find one near you. In addition, Amazon has tons of essentials for all sorts of activities that can be delivered to your door.
No self-care routine is the same, and that’s the point! Customize your routine to include things you love to do, activities that will benefit your mental and physical health, and be real with yourself as to what you will and won’t stay committed to!
Stay safe and healthy,
HCCP