coronavirus

No matter what we do or don’t do, time will pass during quarantine. Now is the perfect time to reflect, thrive and grow. 

Time:

Time is the one thing we never get back. Right now, we have no idea how much longer quarantine will last. Instead of spending your days wishing quarantine life was over, be mindful and appreciate every moment.

Chances are, you have a lot more free time. There are so many things you can do to spend those hours wisely.

You can get back into some older hobbies, take an online course, or spend quality time with loved ones. No matter what we do or don’t do, the time will pass. Might as well make the most of it.

Declutter:

How many household items have been collecting dust in storage over the years?

How many household items are you hesitant to donate because you may need them one day?

Our environment has a huge impact on our mindset and productivity. Being surrounded by clutter can make us feel overwhelmed, stressed or trapped. Now, you may be wondering, which items are worth decluttering. If you haven’t used something in 6 – 12 months, it may be time to donate it.

Change Your Habits:

Bad habits are hard to break. But not impossible!

Now is the perfect time to start breaking those habits. Significant lifestyle changes won’t happen overnight – but if you keep at it, you’ll get there.

We are much more likely to accomplish goals we talk about.  Don’t be afraid to fill your friends and family in on your progress. After all, you can never have too many people cheering you on!

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We are all in the same situation right now. It is completely normal to feel stressed. With that being said, there are several ways you can take care of yourself during COVID-19 and overcome negative emotions. 

Observe Your Emotions Without Judgment:

Your emotions are nothing to be ashamed of. 

Sometimes when we are experiencing stress or anxiety, it can be hard to think logically.

Instead of judging yourself for feeling this way, go ahead and observe and describe your emotions.

How are you feeling right now?

Why do you think you are feeling this way?

What can you do right now to change the situation?

Take A News Break:

Getting lost in the news can take a toll on you emotionally.

There are thousands upon thousands of updates being shared on the daily – most of which can be a little scary.

High levels of stress can cause headaches, stomach issues, high blood pressure, and insomnia.

If a certain article or story is making you upset, the best thing you can do is walk away.

Take Care Of Yourself:

No act of self-care is too small. 

Make sure you are getting enough sleep.

Eat healthy meals.

And exercise regularly.

Embrace Social Media:

Yes, texting is a great way to connect with friends and family.

But, video chatting can create a deeper social interaction.

Actually seeing your loved ones face and hearing their voice can help you feel closer to them.

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Yes, being bored is not fun. You just have to remember, boredom is just a feeling, and will not last forever. 

Here are 3 ways you can tackle boredom today. 

Make a List:

The first step is pretty easy. All you have to do is make a list of things you love to do. 

There are no rules here – but the more variety, the better!

Once your list is complete, be sure to hang it up somewhere easily accessible, like your fridge or medicine cabinet.

The next time you’re feeling bored, you’ll have a list of activities ready to go. 

There will always be those days where an activity just doesn’t appeal to you.

Don’t let that stop you! Sometimes it can take a few minutes to get in the zone. 

Exercise:

It’s a common misconception that a good workout can only take place at the gym.

That is not the case!

We are so lucky to have platforms like YouTube for guidance.

There are thousands of outstanding at-home workout videos that range from 10 – 60 minutes in length.

Boredom Does Not Last Forever:

If none of the above techniques are effective, there is no need to worry.

Your boredom will pass before you know it. Every day is a new day. And you will get through this! 

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Set Limits:

There is nothing wrong with watching television or spending time on social media. The thing is, too much of anything is not healthy.

Lately, the vast majority of news has been spotlighting Coronavirus. Constantly being reminded of the pandemic can bring on anxiety and even panic.

This is the time to listen to your body. If reading the news is making you anxious, it may be best to limit your news consumption. 

Schedule Worry Sessions:

It is completely normal to worry right now. 

However, your worries do not have to take over your entire day.

The next time a negative thought pops up, instead of fixating on the thought, write it down on a sticky note.

Later in the day, you can take a few minutes to look at your thoughts and challenge them!

Get Enough Sleep:

Even though your days are more flexible, you still need a good night’s sleep! We all do.

Getting enough sleep is crucial for both our physical and mental health.

Waking up and going to sleep at the same time is key.

If your anxiety is making it harder to fall asleep at night, you may have to adjust your bedtime rituals.

Instead of watching television, take a long bath or meditate.

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Designated Workspace:

If you’re working from home right now, having a designated workspace is so important! 

Don’t have a home office?

No problem! 

All you need is a table and a comfortable chair.

Nobody knows how much longer mandatory work from home will last, so don’t be afraid to make your workstation comfortable and functional.

Set Your Hours:

Sometimes when we work from home, it can feel like the workday is never officially done. 

The secret is to prioritize your tasks and hours.

Every morning make a list of what must be completed that day and what can wait until tomorrow. 

Take Breaks:

Working hard and working smart are not the same thing. If you’re struggling to get something done, the best thing you can do is take a break.

You can walk around the block, take a shower, or call up a friend.

Cut Yourself Some Slack:

If you’ve never worked from home before it can be quite an adjustment.

You may not be feeling like yourself right now. And that’s okay!

We are all in the same boat. 

Remember – you have nothing to feel guilty about…

We will get through this. This situation will make us all stronger. 

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We may be going through a scary situation right now. But we can’t let our fears get in the way of our well-being. Here are 3 things you should do every single day to stay calm and at ease during this difficult time. 

Move:

Are you moving your body every day? 

Are you stretching? Are you walking? Are you sweating?

If not, you should be…

Here’s why!

Our bodies need at least 20 minutes a day of activity to stay healthy. 

We understand quarantine life can make physical activity a bit harder. 

But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.

You can run up and down the stairs, do jumping jacks, or lift weights. 

The list goes on.

Connect:

Human connection is essential 365 days a year.

Humans need to feel connected. 

Right now, we don’t have the luxury to drive on over to a friend’s house, but we still have options!

Even if you aren’t a very tech-savvy person, don’t be afraid to host group video chats with your friends and family.

This is not an easy time. But a little support can go a long way.

If something is going on, tell your friends about it! Even if nothing gets resolved today, talking about it will help.

Just Be:

When life gets busy, sometimes we can forget to just be. 

Don’t worry about what may or may not happen tomorrow.

Don’t worry about that mistake you made at work yesterday.

Don’t worry about all those dirty dishes you have to do later.

Instead, just appreciate the present moment.

Here’s something for you to think about.

What activity never fails to relax you?

Maybe you love taking long baths – or maybe you love getting lost in a good movie.

Whatever it is – go ahead and do it!

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Are you experiencing high levels of stress right now? You’re not the only one.

Art therapy can help reduce stress, and it’s a unique form of self-care.

It may be exactly what you need right now to keep your mind occupied during this difficult time.

Healthy Distraction:

Drawing is an activity that takes a lot of concentration.

Think about it. It isn’t so easy to worry when you’re focused on another activity.

There are no rules when it comes to artwork.

You can get as creative as you like!

You Deserve Downtime:

The idea of staying home can sound relaxing in theory.

But in reality, it can be quite draining and exhausting.

Even carving out a few minutes a day to do something fun and creative can give you a boost of energy.

Never feel guilty for doing something just for you. You. deserve it.

What To Draw:

Now, you may be thinking to yourself, “Okay, I’d love to start drawing, but have no idea what to draw…”

As we mentioned earlier, there are absolutely no rules!

You can draw what makes you happy.

You can draw what you’re currently feeling.

You can draw what you’re grateful for.

The list goes on.

If you need a little extra inspiration, there are several free coloring pages online you can easily print off.

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The past few weeks have not been easy. Our daily routines have completely changed. And a lot of things are out of our control right now.

However, the one thing we do have control over is our sleep.

Getting a good night’s sleep is one of the best things you can do to stay healthy. 

The body repairs itself when we sleep.

Several studies show that people who sleep 6 hours or less a night are much more likely to get sick.

COVID-19 has brought on a lot of additional stress and uncertainty.

It’s a vicious cycle.

Not getting enough sleep can bring on anxiety.

But anxiety can also cause insomnia. 

With that being said, here are a few tips and tricks that can help improve your quality of sleep. 

Avoid Caffeine:

A good rule of thumb is to avoid caffeine at least 3 hours before bed. Even a few sips too close to bedtime can interfere with your routine.

If you do like having coffee or tea after dinner, opt for decaf!

Turn Off Electronics:

This may seem like a self-explanatory tip, but it is a good one!

Here’s a little homework for you. 

For one week, turn off all your electronic devices one hour before bed and see what happens.

Everything from work emails to social media updates can be a little stressful.

And that is the last thing anyone needs before bed.

Bedtime Rituals:

Having a regular bedtime ritual can be very relaxing and calming.

The actual activity is entirely up to you – as long as it is tech-free.

Reading a good book or taking a nice long bath can help you wind down and get ready for bed. 

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Outdoor Time:

If you have a backyard, now is the time to utilize it! 

Being a parent is a full time job.

And the truth is we all need a break. Now that most of us are working from home, it isn’t easy for parents to get their much needed me time. 

Assuming the weather is nice where you live, encourage your little ones to play outside at least an hour a day.

Not only is spending time outdoors healthy – but it’s always nice to get a change of scenery.

The best part is, playing in the yard requires little – no clean up on your end.

They can play tag, have a scavenger hunt, or even put on a play. 

Get Up Earlier:

There’s nothing more relaxing than sitting on the front porch first thing in the morning with a cup of coffee. 

The thing is, there are only so many hours in a day…

Now, this may be a little tough if you aren’t a morning person.

But waking up 30 minutes earlier than the kids can transform your entire morning routine.

You won’t feel rushed.

You can relax.

You can take your time getting ready.

And just focus on you!

Virtual Play Dates:

Your kids likely miss their friends just as much as you do.

We get it – virtual playdates aren’t the same as in-person ones. But they are definitely better than nothing.

They can play charades, sing songs, dance or read. The list goes on.

While your little ones are playing with their friends, you can use that time to relax or catch up on housework.

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Have you ever thought about how often your little kids touch their mouth, nose, and eyes?

Now, older kids and adults understand why we should avoid touching our face…

However, your preschooler may not. 

They say it takes around 21 days to form a habit. Today is the perfect day to teach your little one the importance of hand washing.

Let’s get started!

Lead By Example

Preschoolers are very impressionable. If they regularly see you washing your hands, it will encourage them to do the same. 

Before meals and after playtime, have the entire family wash their hands together.

Don’t be afraid to make the process fun. A good rule of thumb is to sing the Happy Birthday song twice while hand washing.

Talk About Why

Your little ones may not understand why we need to wash our hands. 

Sit down with them and explain how and why regular hand washing keeps us healthy. 

Make It Fun

Who says hand washing can’t be fun! You just have to get a little creative. 

How To Get Started

1) Purchase soap in their favourite scent or with their favourite character on it. 

2) Make up a fun hand washing song.

3) Create a hand washing chart.

4) Read a fun hand washing book before bed.