1. Create a Schedule
Whether you’re in online classes, working from home, or just bored out of your brain, you still need to maintain some sort of day-to-day structure. Try setting up a planner or calendar to designate time to work and time to destress. Planning out your day will help you maintain a level of normalcy that a lot of us are longing for right now.
2. Maintain Good Hygiene
It may be tempting to slack off on your skincare routine or skip shaving your legs when there is no one around, but this could end up hurting your self-esteem. It is important that we still practice good hygiene daily to not only stay healthy but also to feel good about ourselves. Use your free time to your advantage and try a new face mask, or give yourself a fresh pedicure.
3. Keep in Contact with Friends and Family
Just because we are all stuck inside and being forced to socially distance ourselves from others doesn’t mean we can’t keep in touch. Reaching out to friends and loved ones to see how they are doing will keep your relationships strong and help others feel less alone.
4. Stay Up to Date, But Don’t Over Do It
With life as we know it changing every day, it is important that we stay informed on what is happening but don’t overdo it. Limit your time watching the news and reading up on the virus to prevent a negative effect on your mental health. The same can be said for social media. I know you’re bored, but please be mindful of how much time you are spending online. Most importantly, be cautious of where you get your information from and try to stick to sources that you know are credible.
5. Maintain Healthy Eating Habits
Eating healthy is an important factor of several things, but, most importantly, our immune systems. It can be tempting to gorge on unhealthy snacks or overeat, but that will only lower your immune system and cause unintended weight gain. It is unclear when quarantine life will come to an end, and not eating healthy for weeks or months will catch up to you and potentially compromise your health.
6. Try Something New
Use this time to pick up a new hobby or try something you’ve always been interested in. Starting a new craft or following along to a yoga video can help get your mind off the current uncertainty of the world. You may even find something to continue with once we are all back to normal, everyday life.
7. Stay Active
I know this one can be tough if you feel that you have limited space or exercise equipment, but you’ve got this! There are plenty of in-home workouts to try on YouTube to keep you in shape and to stay moving. If you feel that your space isn’t big enough for an in-home workout, then head outside for a walk or jog. Most areas are still permitting outside activities as long as social distancing is maintained. Staying active is essential for our bodies and minds, especially during a time of crisis.