I realise that you have probably heard this too many times, but it is the first time we are living in a global pandemic and it helps to remember this when things get tough. As a result, we are all learning just how to “be” in this strange situation.
How are you coping?
Some may be feeling that, other than masks and social distancing, nothing has changed really, as they are back at work. Some in essential services, have not stopped, but they too have a new way of being at work.
Are you struggling?
Living behind a mask can be claustrophobic for people who struggle with claustrophobia. Also, for those with reduced lung function or who battle to breathe. Living and working from home could be a struggle for those who live alone, who need physical interaction and social engagement. Difficult times for many.
How to cope?
The essentials of following the guidelines as much as possible so that you keep yourself and your family safe come first, but then there needs to be balance. So:
- Take time for yourself to selfcare, even 10 minutes can do wonders
- Remember your hobbies and enjoy them whenever possible
- Connect with people who uplift you, hear you, make you laugh, love you
- Watch comedies or movies that make you laugh; read funny books. Laughter really is good medicine for the body, mind and soul
- Exercise it builds the feel-good hormones and gets the blood flowing faster. Even yoga can do that.
- Eat healthily even though the temptation is to binge on not-so-healthy foods. Indulging in them once or twice a week is giving in to the enjoyment without overdoing it – hopefully
- Sleep well so that you wake up refreshed. If you aren’t ask yourself why.
- Remember to breathe – long deep breaths into the stomach so that the lungs can really have a change of oxygen even in the bottom levels.
- Listen to music that uplifts or gets you moving
- Get outside and breathe the fresh air; get some sun
- Keep a journal so that you can note how you are really feeling and offload some of it as well
- Be kind to yourself as it will help you be kind to others too when the wheels seem to be spinning.
When all else fails and you are still battling, get some help. It may be just what helps to shifts things and get you back to where you want to be.