In light of all the changes we are enduring as a society during the current pandemic, it is of utmost importance that we practice self care and healthy coping mechanisms. The uncertainty of what is to come has brought a shared sense of anxiety and fear among many of us. But just like in peaceful times, the way we deal with changes sets the tone for the future and our overall well being. Here are a few tips that you can implement into your life that can help alleviate the stress that comes with change. These are especially valuable during these times of self quarantine, but can be used for any area of your life that is undergoing a sudden shift.
1. Reinvent your routine.
When life takes a sudden turn as a result of a breakup, moving, or *cough cough* a global pandemic – our entire sense of comfort, safety and familiarity is disturbed. By quickly developing a new routine, you begin to regain a sense of control and fluidity. A routine does not have to be strict times and specific tasks, it can be fluid and offer you something to look forward to in times of uncertainty. The rest of these tips will include some ideas as to what you may want to implement into your new routine.
2. Stay on top of your responsibilities.
Although it may seem hard to focus while acclimating to a new way of life, it is important to invest time into things such as work and school. Assigning time to dedicate to getting your responsibilities done allows you to relax outside of that designated time and gives you freedom from stressing about what needs to be done when you aren’t working.
3. Practice healthy de-stressing mechanisms.
When big changes take place in our lives, it can be extremely stressful. It is important to find ways to cope with that stress in order to take on a new way of life with optimism. There are many ways to de-stress, and we all crave that release. However, it is important to find ways to relax and clear your mind that are also productive for your mind and body. It can be easy to want to pour some wine and binge watch TV to get our mind off things (not that we don’t all need that sometimes), but for the sake of your routine, it could be beneficial to do things such as move your body through exercise or yoga, or perhaps take up a new hobby.
4. Seek a creative outlet
Related to de-stressing, finding a creative outlet can be extremely therapeutic when everything else feels chaotic and uncertain. It is an innate human need to create. When a lot is going on in your life however, it can be difficult to allow yourself to let go into a creative flow. Yet by doing so, we are giving our mind and soul the love it needs during stressful times.
5. Stay True to You
The term “routine” seems to get a bad rep, but our minds and bodies crave consistency and predictability! Just because something is predictable, does not mean it needs to be bland. We all are unique in our own interests and beliefs; it can be valuable to implement some time in your routine that is dedicated to manifesting your self-identity and perception. If you are religious or spiritual, this could be a good time to explore or learn more about your faith. If you are particularly fascinated about old movies, dinosaurs, world travel, or whatever it may be, it is important to use some time in your routine to feed your interests and the instinctual desire to learn.
Although change can be scary and can leave us dazed and confused, we have the capacity and control to take on a new way of life. Instead of focusing on what was lost amidst a change you have undergone, it is important to acknowledge it as the amazing opportunity to grow that it is.