Over the last few months, we have had to get used to the “new normal” that we are currently living in. Our home and work schedules have flipped upside down and even morphed into one. Frankly, it’s more than normal to be struggling with how to navigate the current unknown economic circumstances. Below is a list of 10 tips to staying mentally and physically well during this time.
- Stick to a routine: Go to sleep and wake up at a reasonable time, write a schedule that is varied and includes time for work as well as self-care.
- Get out a least once a day, for at least 30 minutes: It is amazing how much fresh air can do for your spirits. If you are concerned about contact, try going out first thing in the morning, or later in the evening.
- Find some time to move each day: If you don’t feel comfortable going outside, there are many YouTube videos that offer free movement classes, and if all else fails, turn on the music and have a dance party!
- Stay hydrated and eat well: It may seem obvious, but stress and eating often do not mix well. Drink plenty of water and eat some good nutritious foods. Try challenging yourself to cook something new!
- Give everyone the benefit of the doubt: Cooped up time can bring out the worst in everyone. Each person will have moments when they will not be at their best. It is important to move with grace through blow-ups and to not hold grudges and continue disagreements. Remember, everyone is doing the best they can to get through this.
- Lower expectations and practice radical self-acceptance: A lot of our current actions are done under fear and stress. Instead, give yourself what psychologists call “radical self-acceptance”: accepting everything about yourself, your current situation, and your life without question, blame or pushback. There is no roadmap for this, and we are all doing the best we can.
- Help others: Find ways, big and small, to give back to others. Support Local, offer to grocery shop, check in with elderly neighbours. Helping others gives us a sense of agency when things get out of control.
- Find lightness and humour in each day: Counterbalance this heaviness with something funny each day: cat videos on YouTube, a new show on Netflix or a funny movie – we all need a little comedic relief in our day, every day.
- Reach out for help – your team is there for you: If you are having difficulty coping, seek out help. Whether it be doctors, support groups from fellow homeschoolers, parents, or neighbours. There is help and support our there, any time of the day – although we are physically distant, we can always connect virtually.
- Remind yourself daily that this is temporary: It seems in the course of the quarantine that it will never end. Please take time to remind yourself that although this is very scary and difficult, it is a season of life and it will pass. We will return to feeling free, safe, busy and connected in the days ahead.
https://canadianhealthadvocatesinc.ca/blog/25-mental-health-wellness-tips-for-quarantine/
Article featured for Spring 2020
This is the time that we’ve all been waiting for! The snow is melting, the sun is out longer each day, and the temperature is starting to warm up. Now is the time to get moving as we transition seasons. Here are five hints to help you “spring into wellness:”
- Wake up early to exercise: The mornings are warming up and the sun rises earlier each day. Whether it’s walking your dog, or going for a run, get out and exercise before starting your day.
- Revitalize your daily fruits and vegetables: Spring is a great season to add new fruits and vegetables to your diet. Fruits and vegetables like cherries, raspberries, cucumbers and peppers are best in spring!
- Say “Yes” to a healthy breakfast: Make sure to partner a morning exercise routine with a healthy breakfast to give you energy for the day.
- Water with a squeeze of lemon: For your body to perform at a high level it’s essential to stay hydrated. Try a squeeze of lemon in your water to boost your digestive system and add a bit of zest.
- Proper sleeping habits: Strive for at least 8 hours each night. Staying up late has also been shown to increase the likelihood of overeating.
https://www.corporatewellnessmagazine.com/article/seven-tipspromoting-healthy-spring