The world is in crisis due to COVID-19 and we are all affected either directly or indirectly by it. Being in isolation at home presents its own challenges, but like everything else in life, there are a few positive aspects to it. Following are 5 ways to make the most of this time:
1. Start Your Day Mindfully
With no more rushed mornings getting the kids to school, beating traffic, or getting to work on time for an early meeting, start your day in silence by taking a few deep breaths, meditating, and thinking about your daily intention. Starting the day in a mindful way helps to keep you grounded, lower anxiety, and give you a sense of control in the middle of the chaos.
2. Limit Your News Consumption
Nowadays, the news is at our fingertips and we are constantly bombarded by it. Whether it is on television or text messages from friends and family, it is hard to stay away from it and not go down the rabbit hole in the face of this horrible pandemic. However, I’ve found limiting my consumption of the news to twice a day has helped with my anxiety.
If you are not in the medical field or cannot help in any other capacity, the best you can do is help yourself by avoiding what triggers you. By feeling your best, you will do your best and have a positive influence on the people around you.
3. Keep Yourself Busy with Little Projects
Being bored at home can bring all kinds of feelings and thoughts on the surface, usually not the good ones. If you are going down this path, shift your thoughts towards all the things that you’ve always wished to do but never had the time for. Now is the time to tackle your list.
When I found out that I’d be working from home, I wondered how I’d entertain myself while being stuck there for weeks. Then, I came up with a list of activities: fixing things around the house, getting better at doing a headstand, trying new recipes, reading, brushing up my piano skills, and so on.
There are plenty of activities to engage in and skills to learn or improve on that you can do from the comfort of your home. Go ahead and create your own list!
4. Be with Yourself
You may never have this much free time again, so it is important to take advantage of it and use it for something good. Stealing a few minutes throughout the day to be with yourself is important. Be present and notice how you truly feel. Are you stressed? Do you feel overwhelmed? What is worrying you? Become aware of your gut feeling, the little voice inside you, or any feelings that manifest itself to you. Pay attention to what comes up and don’t doubt the messages you receive. Your inner self is here to help, guide, and comfort you.
5. Give Yourself a Goal
Who would you want to be at the end of the quarantine? I find having a goal brings a sense of purpose. It also gives you courage when you feel down as you have something to look forward to. Your goal doesn’t have to be something complicated, but significant enough to keep you going. Think of something that you can do and have time to dedicate to. How accomplished would you feel in the next few days or weeks?