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Right now so many people are stressed out, and it’s totally understandable! How many of us have been through something like this before?
In many ways, this reminds me of 9/11 because I knew everything would change, but I didn’t know how. Or when things would return to normal again, at least as close as possible.
Back when the Twin Towers went down, I was glued to the TV eagerly awaiting the newest update. I bought magazines and checked newspaper headlines. My husband was busy recording news updates on VHS tapes. We were all dealing with in it their own ways.
It’s basically the same now, except that most of us are glued to Facebook or Twitter and refreshing local news sites for updates. And given that I’ve been sick for a few weeks and I’m in one of the US’s hardest hit areas, the whole virus thing strikes especially close to home.
I know about worry! And about the importance of self care.
… or your phone or tablet or the TV or whatever device you’re constantly refreshing for the latest news. (We’re all guilty of it!)
Chances are, things aren’t going to change much in the next hour or two. Or even day. Give your mind a chance to calm and reset.
Really, it’s going to be okay. Things may be different when all of this is said and done, but we’ll be able to make the most of whatever happens. And one thing is certain — worrying about it now won’t do us a bit of good. We’ll be in a better spot if we’re refreshed and not stressed.
When we’re frazzled, we tend to forget the basics. Staying hydrated is huge! It keeps your body running like it should and will help promote a good immune system.
If you’re not a huge fan of plain water, add a lemon — or any fruit!
Along the same line, eat healthy. Our bodies need healthy foods to function well. Cut back on sugars and add an extra serving of vegetables — that’s a great starting point.
Journaling your thoughts can be a great way to get rid of the stress you’re holding onto. Many times, just getting our feelings out releases us from their hold.
No, it doesn’t change the situation … but it can change the way we see it. Grab a stray piece of paper, find a journaling app, or even buy a journal just for your thoughts. One of my favorite brands is Erin Condren.
Write fiction. They say everyone has a book inside of them. Do you? If you’ve been wanting to write a book, now could be your time! I shared some practical tips to get started in this post. Writing fiction can be extremely therapeutic!
There’s nothing like lounging somewhere comfy with a book to get your mind off life’s happenings. I love kicking back on my couch or in bed, but you can also go outside, make a bath, sit by a window with some tea, or come up with something else.
Books don’t have to cost money. I have 6 free books you can download at your favorite online retailer (Amazon, Nook, Kobo, Apple, etc.) Nearly all of my ebooks and audiobooks are available to borrow at the libraries using apps like Overdrive. If one isn’t available (it depends on your particular library) you can request it!
I’m sure you already know the benefits of being outside. It’s even more important in times like this corona virus which has most of homebound. Even if it’s raining, the fresh air does a body good.
Take it even further and go for a walk. Exercise is a great feeling!
Another way to get our minds off the craziness in the world is to focus on something positive — not just a passing thought, but actually giving it exclusive mental space.
As long as you don’t pick something depressing, listening to music can do wonders! Whether you pick something relaxing or uplifting or zany, it’ll help put you in a better mood.
Getting enough sleep is crucial for physical and emotional health. If you can, use some of this extra time for catching up on zzz’s.
Use Facetime or Zoom to have a face-to-face chat with loved ones who are also stuck at home. Everyone, even introverts, need time with people, so get creative and connect in other ways beyond Facebook and texting.
What’s an escape board? It’s kind of like a vision board, but it has pictures of places you want to go. Gather as many dream destination pictures as you can find and look at them, imagining that you’re there! Need an example? Visit mine.
You can also pick any topic you want — it doesn’t have to be exotic locations. Collect pictures of a dream house, cute animals, inspirational quotes, or whatever suits your fancy.
Encourage your loved ones to take care of themselves too! Feel free to share this post with them or pick your favorite tip.
I hope this list gives you inspiration to step away from stress and take care of yourself. It’s more now than ever!
Well said, Stacy! Great post! We could all use the time to step back, relax, and take care ourselves and those we love.
Thank you, Kathleen! It’s hard to remember these days, but more important than ever.
Self isolation which is coming to people around the world, makes practising Self Care more important than ever. It is incredibly difficult to suddenly change your lifestyle either through illness or injury. But we as a world group have to change for our own safety, and that of others. It will be a tough and long process over the next few months. So step back, learn to relax, sleep in, do a jigsaw, enjoy your garden if you have one, read a new book, learn to practice Self Care.
Yvonne,
I couldn’t agree more. We need it now more than ever!
Perfect time, Montana just got the Stay-In from our Governor, effective 12:01 Saturday. This is a great sheet to refer back to when I’m totally stressed! (ok more than normal) Thank you so much for sharing this great help aid! Take care!
Sheila,
Yes, I think we’re all more stressed than normal. Thankfully we can do something about it.
I liked this post greatly. With everything going on we all need time to take a break. I especially like the part of reading a book and journaling. those things help me calm down. even writing my music. Another thing I would add to this list is baking, which is a big stress reliever.
Hi Scarlett,
Baking is a great idea! That sounds like it could be a lot of fun and a great way to get your mind off everything.