As I write this – we are in the middle of a global pandemic. And as much as I want to start this blog post on a peppy, positive note – I have to acknowledge that this time is honestly, very scary. Pretty sure the universe experienced one massive panic attack all together because there’s not a single person I’ve talked to that’s feeling at ease. These times are weird and it’s bringing up so many different emotions for each of us – so let’s talk about some ways we can practice healthy habits at home during quarantine.
Routine
Humans thrive on some form of routine – it gives us a feeling of control and safety. But for most of us, our routines look different now. We’re not dealing with the typical 9-5 situation, which means we have to strictly enforce our own version of daily scheduling.
So I created a quarantine-specific daily to-do list. Even though I was already WFH – my daily routine has not looked the same post-pandemic. So I made an updated routine on a Google spreadsheet and I schedule something every day that helps my financial, physical, and mental health. I’m also using this time to further my marketing skills in order to better serve my brand. This is keeping me busy and giving me something to look forward to. As mentioned in this post, updating your routine includes taking care of yourself – take a shower, get out of your pj’s, put your face on. A pandemic is no excuse to let yourself feel like a sloth for 14+ days.
Meditation
Yawn, I know. You’ve heard it a million times.
But there’s a reason why – it works.
When I first started meditating, I thought it was a joke. The idea of shutting my brain off just wasn’t going to happen. So I kept doing it over and over and over until one day – I was meditating and experienced one of those come-to-Jesus moments. You don’t have to understand how it works, you just need to show up, be present, and your breathing will do the rest.
I’m a big advocate for guided meditations. Simply put, guided meditations allows someone else to guide you through a meditation practice. There’s no need to shut everything off – you just have to acknowledge your thoughts from a distance. A perfect starting point is a meditation app like HeadSpace – it includes short mediations, sleepcasts, music, etc.
Movement
Whenever I suggest movement, I immediately think of Nina Sky’s “Move Ya Body” and if you don’t know the 2004 reference, I’m silently judging you.
We have to move our bodies. Besides the fact that exercise boosts our endorphins, exercise should be apart of our immune-boosting Covid strategy. Why? Exercise increases oxygen absorption, and our cells (especially) need more oxygen absorption during a respiratory disease pandemic. If you’re not in the mood to workout, I get it – but reminding yourself that it’s necessary in order to stay strong during this time may help motivate you.
Space!!
I know you’re thinking it – how tf are we going to get through quarantine without ending up on that true-crime series, Snapped. Because let’s be honest – being stuck with your significant other or family for 24 hours a day, for a month.. is.. not.. easy.
*Babe – if you’re reading this, I still love you.
The best way to handle this is to set boundaries, be patient, and take breaks from one another. I like to be alone the first hour after waking up so that I can enjoy my coffee in peace – I go sit in a separate room and join my partner during lunchtime. Schedule an at-home date night and get creative, but most importantly – give yourself some room in between that time.
Connection
I’m a hugger. Like, I didn’t realize how much I needed to hug people until I was told I wasn’t allowed to. Right now – we need to stay connected for our emotional health. Take a virtual yoga class, Facetime with your gals, have a Zoom double-date. This will help get you through those days where you’re starting to spiral.
Shut It Off
The news right now is bleak – and it’s impossible to turn on the TV or social media without seeing something horrific. With that being said, it’s vital that you don’t watch the news hours on end.
I highly recommend not watching any breaking Covid-19 news first thing in the morning or last thing before bed. Give yourself a time frame for how much you want to consume it – and then shut it off. No ifs, ands, or buts.
Sending you all a virtual hug.
