Feeling stressed, anxious, panicked? It’s okay to feel a bit on edge. We are living in truly unpredictable and chaotic times. If you are struggling to look after your mental health whilst being self-isolated, read on to find out some tips on how to support yourself during an unprecedented era.
These tips have been compiled to start each day perfectly. Having a routine is instrumental in getting your body and mind in sync. This is essential, particularly if you are on furlough and possibly striving for some sort of direction. Having a sense of structure and discipline will invigorate you and keep you going during even the darkest times. 1. Aeroplane Mode Your Phone
I activate this before I sleep. This means I don’t get notifications in the night, and my brain is not reacting to social media and messaging that might pop up and disrupt me from my much needed rest. Browsing my phone with bleary eyes and a forlorn expression at 3:33am is really not a wise idea, and seeing some sort of negative news might interrupt my sleep further. We do get a dopamine rush when we see positive notifications – so why not wait until the end of your morning routine to view them? Treat yourself to hearing from your loved ones, but after you’ve completed enough activities to earn it! Little rewards in a time of crisis can be an excellent motivator.
2. Make Your Bed
It may seem relatively simple, but this is a great accomplishment! You start the day by being pro-active, plus you get into the habit of taking care of the small (but really important) things. Once you’ve done this simple, but often neglected task, it can create momentum to get more tasks done. Plus, after a long day in isolation, it can be very inviting to have a comfortable and readily made bed, instead of strewn sheets, pillows and a clothes chair.
3. Stretch Stretching enhances your quality of sleep and increases blood circulation, whilst also lowering your stress levels. These could include calf raises, squats or every yogini's favourite, the downward dog. By doing a few basic stretches, it can help energize you and wake you up for the day ahead. If you find stretching to simple, maybe try Pilates, press-ups or a light jog instead. 4. Make a List of Things to Do Each day I make a list of things I want to do each day. This has really helped me motivate myself during the darkest of times. Otherwise I end up lazing around watching Netflix binging The Tiger King whilst demolishing crisps, candy and carrots. This is perfectly fine, but it really helps to push yourself and further your personal development if you get active and thrive on productive tasks. For example, I am trying to train myself to do a handstand, learn guitar and improve my baking. Who else knew the banana bread trend had such a therapeutic benefit?
5. Meditate
Meditation is the best thing ever when it comes to lowering the intensity of anxiety and stress. Simply breathing for longer can really connect with your mind and body, allowing you to recognise any triggers. There are plenty of meditations on Youtube, I have being doing weekly online meetups for anyone who would like to join a virtual guided session – click here.
6. Have a Big Breakfast You deserve it after another day 'inside'! I recommend pancakes, chocolate sauce and strawberries. For those who prefer a health kick, maybe have a fruit smoothie packed full of essential vitamins instead. Building up your immune system is definitely not a bad thing right now. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and for a good reason – energy! If you’re worried about anything, it’s okay. You are not alone. We will get through this by looking after each other, but make sure to look after yourself too.
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