It seems hard to believe that eight months of COVID is now upon us, bringing anxiety and stress to whole new levels. Now, the election is only amplifying these feelings. There’s no question there will be a lot to deal with in the upcoming week(s). I have been spending a lot of time thinking, and talking with friends, family, students and clients about what they are doing to focus on self-care during these very unnerving times. Hers what we came up with:
.
🌻 Getting outside! Take a long walk outside for “peace and calm”, play in the yard or park, and if it is cold, take a long car ride as an escape. Of course I would say, bundle up and walk outside anyway, but that is just me!
🚴🏾 Exercising! This includes running, bike riding, online cardio classes and power yoga. As we know, exercise absolutely helps lift the mood. So by all means give it a try (or continue it).
.
🍲 Cooking! This includes two main themes. Firet, people discuss learning to create new healthy meals. I heard ideas from nest hub, online cooking sites and the Food Network. Others brought up eating their favorite comfort foods. This includes ordering in from a favorite place, heating something up from the freezer, or baking. If you lives with other people, this can be real connection time and meaningful quality time with loved ones.
.
💅🏼 Pampering! Many women talk about getting out of their PJs and dressing up for the day to feel motivated, giving themselves at home facials, and treating themselves to manicures and pedicures.
.
🛋 Not pampering! This includes wearing cozy clothes like matching pajama sets and slippers, those now made famous yoga pants, and a lot of couch and Netflix time.
.
🧹 Cleaning! Cleaning out drawers, attics, and closets. Pairing down by deciding keep, donate, or time to discard!
.
🎧 Listening! Many brought up soothing playlists, getting into an audiobook, or using mindfulness apps including Insight Timer, Headspace, Calm, and Ten Percent Happier. Continue reading →