SOCIAL DISTANCING AND SELF-CARE

The past few weeks have been difficult for everyone, as the pandemic continues to progress, we are all left with few answers about when this will all start to calm down and we can return back to our regular routines. For many, the healthy distractions and coping skills that they would normally turn to are not available at this time and it can be very easy to slip into unhealthy and negative habits to self-soothe.

The reality we are used to has changed completed, and many of us are spending our time inside the walls of how homes. Some are working from home, while others are without work, both situations with their own unique stressors. One thing most people have noticed is that they have a lot of extra time to fill, which is sometimes being taken up by heightened worry and emotional distress. This can be exacerbated by a lack a daily routine, leaving individuals vulnerable as they try to cope through the ongoing impact of COVID-19.

One of the first things that people may notice that starts to slide is their self-care routine. It can be difficult to self-start and motivate yourself to put energy into caring for yourself. Part of keeping a routine includes scheduling in time for self-care. You don’t need to try and do everything on this list rather choose a few things that your find fulfilling and comforting and try to incorporate them into your day. Let us know which ones you will try or add some of your own ideas!

Self-Care Suggestions:

· Journal

· Meditate

· Create goals

· Color

· Yoga

· Text a friend

· Nap

· Drink water

· Play an instrument

· Complete a puzzle

· Crochet/knit

· Practice positive self-talk

· Watch a TED Talk

· Read a bok

· Tell people you love them

· Express gratitude

· Make a donation bag

· Establish a skin care routine

· Learn a new dance

· Reorganize your closet

· Create a budget

· Facetime/Skype someone

· Practice breathing exercises

· Stretch

· Listen to a podcast