Countless studies during the pandemic have shown that we’re all more stressed than ever before. In addition to other mental health issues, chronic stress has become a chronic problem as our routines, families, and sense of normalcy has been turned upside down.
This is why taking care of yourself and finding ways to reduce tension for yourself and your family is so vital right now. Today I would like to offer you 7 self-care tips that will help you to get through this challenging time.
#1 – Clear Out Stress at Home
Home is where the heart is and it’s also where a lot of chronic stress begins. If your family has been arguing or complaining during the lockdown, cleaning out bad energy from your home can help alleviate these tensions. Declutter, clean up and then open some windows for fresh air.
#2 – Create Self-Care Sanctuaries
With the “bad” energy cleared from your home, you can begin bringing in more positive vibes. One of the best ways to do so is to set up a dedicated meditation space. This is also a simple project you can complete with minimal materials and only a short amount of time. Not sure how to get started with meditation? Check out my free guided meditations here.
#3 – Practice Daily Meditation
Practicing mindful meditation can help free your mind of pandemic stress. Guided meditations are a great resource if you are just getting started. These can help you build this stress-relieving habit into your daily routine.
#4 – Move With Morning Yoga
Before you practice meditation, it can also be beneficial to prepare your body with a little gentle movement. Most people find that practicing meditation and yoga in the morning sets them up for a more productive and less stressful day. You only need 30 minutes to reap these mental health benefits, and you will also be providing a boost to your physical health and overall well-being.
#5 – Eat More Fresh Foods
Have you been stress-eating chips and cookies in lockdown? There’s nothing wrong with indulging occasionally but eating too many processed foods can actually make your stress worse. Unfortunately, cravings for these meals and snacks tend to get worse when you are feeling anxious or tense. Break the cycle by swapping them out for fresh options instead. And if you have not watched my free webinars about emotional eating yet, do it right now.
- Emotional eating: Food as a substitute for love:
https://youtu.be/VaVZiX4GUi8 - Tell me what you eat and I will tell you what problems you have:
https://youtu.be/jo9Kii9B2j0 - Oral personality type and overeating:
https://youtu.be/YVnyXA_mvH0 - Food as a universal remedy for better and for worse:
https://youtu.be/tbxZocXc9Dg
#6 – Get a Daily Dose of Sun
Another reason we may all be feeling more stressed and down lately is that we’ve been spending most of our time indoors. Expert-backed research shows that humans need at least 120 minutes outside each week in order to preserve critical processes in our brains and bodies. If you need to relieve some stress, you can take a socially-distanced walk around your neighborhood or a local park. You can also try exercising in your own backyard.
#7 – Connect With Loved Ones
Finally, know that spending time with friends and family is another critical self-care need. Since doing so physically may not be possible right now, you should look for safer options to stay connected to the people you love. Set up virtual parties and social hours, so that you can catch up with friends and family. You could also put together a virtual book, movie, or craft club.
With vaccines on the way, we’re beginning to see the light at the end of this pandemic. Still, it will take some time before we can get back to normal, and that normal may look so very different from what we’ve been used to. This is why you need self-care now more than ever. You need to find positive ways to cope with the stress and uncertainty that may be ahead and to keep yourself grounded and calm. Remember that self-care is a necessity, not a luxury.
Check out Psychology of Happiness’ resources and online courses to help you manage stress and cultivate more joy in your life. Book a private session today.
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