March 2020
It’s been one strange month.
In the beginning I was in my stride getting shit done and moving forward in life. Making plans and preparing for my workshops. And now with the world’s current climate all of this has been postponed. I’m trying to figure out how to thrive in my new normal.
The last few weeks I’ve been under a lot of stress. Being classified as an essential worker, as a consultant in banking. I’ve found it quite difficult to separate my energy and feelings of those around me. Something that I thought I was getting better at but I’m truely being tested right now. My anxiety is very heightened these days, but I’m aware of why which makes it slightly easier for it to pass.
The hardest part of it all is not being able to see my loved ones. I usually see my family and friends every weekend. I’m so used to getting together to celebrate something or just because. I know that with technology we can video chat and all that but it’s just not the same, but I’m grateful for it all non the less. I have this reoccurring feeling of fear that I’m missing out on valuable time with them all. I know that this has all built up from all the loss I’ve experienced the last few years. But in this situation I can’t help but feel a little scared. Everything is so up in the air and uncertain. Uncertain in a scary way. I’m usually excited by uncertainty but not this time.
I thought I’d share some tips for staying sane during this time of uncertainty. It’s all about caring for your mental health and being aware. I’m trying to keep my routine the same whilst social distancing and only leaving the house to go to work and buy food.
Move your body —it’s so important to exercise during this time, to keep our minds and bodies healthy. Especially if you’re in isolation or working from home. I’ve signed up to Best Body Pilates At Home, I really miss reformer but having these live workout sessions keep me accountable and motivated to get through a workout at home. Go for social distancing friendly walks, fresh air will help with keeping a clear mental state.
Good eating habits —I’m an emotional eater. It’s not the best but I’m working on it. I believe in a balanced intake of food. Everything in moderation. Eat your greens and drink your water. Maintaining good eating habits is so important for me during this time, it makes my mind feel clearer. Consuming a lot of processed foods right now or at anytime makes me feel tired and foggy. Which is not the optimal state of mind. Cook the recipes you’ve saved on pinterest or start learning to cook if you weren’t big on it before.
Be creative and curious —having so much more time at home is an amazing time to do all the things you’ve wanted to try and discover potential passions. My instagram is filled with people making sourdough, baking banana bread and cooking beans. Which was quite literally my whole instagram brand. So if you’ve ever wanted to learn something, read or get your creativity flowing, just fucking do it!
Reach out —call and video chat your loved ones and neighbours, check in with them and make sure they’re feeling good. It’s a scary time we’re in —give support and ask for support when you need it. We’re all in this together. The stronger we are as a community, the stronger and more fruitful our future will be.
Limit your news intake —I honestly think the news is trash. It revolves on creating and instigating fear. I’m not saying be ignorant to the situation. But be mindful of the news sources you’re consuming and how much. I limit myself to the updates I get through my work email. My company sends out government regulation and work updates around the situation. This way I’m staying updated on the most important points and not over consuming. Which can definitely lead to anxiety and living in constant fear. I would say limit yourself to two updates a day, one in the morning and afternoon. That way you’re staying current but only on the vital information. It’s so important for your mental health.
These tips are what I live by, during Covid-19 or not. Continue practicing and living your values. Be proactive and thoughtful about your actions and please follow the guidelines set in your country, so we can come out of this climate stronger and more aware.
How are you feeling about the world’s current situation? How are you?