It seems like every time I open my social media accounts, I am bombarded with images about COVID-19. Don’t get me wrong, I think that it is important to be aware of what is happening in the world around us, especially so we can do our part to flatten the curve and protect the immunocompromised. But at the same time, it is important to recognize that not all the information being circulated is worth indulging in. It is crucial to take a minute to reflect on what you are reading, liking and sharing. A lot of the information being circulated is not aimed at informing the public, but instead is aimed at creating a moral panic. Media outlets feed off of panic, fear and extreme cases because this is what sells and what increases viewership. If you are anything like me, this is overwhelming. What is “normal” is flipped upside down and it’s easy to find yourself stuck in this “in-between” feeling. When we are constantly wrapped up in thinking about the negative, our body and mind are put in a compromised state and this can be extremely isolating.
I want to encourage you to take a moment to acknowledge how you are feeling right now. I also want you to think about how you can set proactive boundaries for yourself. Boundaries are put in place to protect your space, your energy and your own peace. This can be done by limiting how much you consume; I promise that any information you need to know, you will know. Constantly updating your social media feeds does more harm than good. I also recommend focusing on the positives of social distancing and the benefits of reconnecting with yourself. Today, we are virtually plugged into the world around us and we don’t hesitate to make ourselves constantly available to others. As amazing as this is, it is crucial to learn how to be comfortable with being alone. There is great power in reconnecting with yourself. It is important to recognize that social distancing is not the same as isolation. Isolation and completely cutting yourself off from others will lead to feelings of anxiety or frusteration, which is not the aim of this practice. Practicing social distancing is an opportunity to tune into your well-being by focusing on you.
As scary as this is, it is necessary to take care of yourself during this pandemic. When your body and mind are in a state of stress, you are more prone to contracting disease. Looking out for yourself is the best thing you can do during this time. That being said, this is a process. It is okay to feel sad, lonely, confused at times. You are changing the way you think and it is not going to happen overnight. Remember that taking active steps to protect your space and energy can help combat some of these darker feelings.
Here are some ways to make the best of social distancing:
Establish some sort of routine
It does not have to be drastic. Something as simple as waking up at the same time each day can help add some structure back to your life. This is beneficial, especially when everything else around you feels like a big question mark.
Fuel Your Body
Fueling your body with proper nutrients and eating a well-balanced diet will boost your mind. There is a significant relationship between the food we consume and how we feel. Do not underestimate the power of a good meal!
Get Your Blood Pumping
Even if it’s small, it is important to get your release endorphins! Increasing your heart-rate will help protect against those quarantine blues. Some of my suggestions include: participating in a virtual fitness class, yoga, meditation or even going for a run! Nothing bad can come from getting active!
Reconnect with Nature
Humans are programmed to be influenced by our environments. Getting outdoors and breathing in the fresh air is a great way to gain some mental clarity. If you are feeling anxious about being locked up indoors, take a walk.
Voice Your Feelings
Like I said before, social distancing and isolation are not the same thing. It is okay to feel anxious and overwhelmed about what is happening. For many people, this situation can act as a trigger. It is important to confide in those you trust about how you are feeling and to get connected to resources if you need them. This event is probably unprecedented for you and it is okay to not know how to handle it. That is valid.
Some other suggestions include:
- Make a kick ass playlist
- Do something creative – paint, write, draw!
- Read a good book
- Reevaluate/rewrite your goals
- Create a vison board
- Catch up on some well-deserved sleep
- Drink some tea – I recommend green tea with honey!
- Burn sage/incense/essential oils
- Take a bath
- Catch up on laundry
- Take care of your plants
- Deep clean your room/desk/closet
- Donate/repurpose clothing you no longer wear
- Bake some cookies
- Enjoy that glass of wine
- Practice grounding/or mediate
- Catch up on school work
- Binge your favorite movies
- Practice gratitude – one good thing every day!
- Journal
- 24-hour social media cleanse
- Call a friend
I am hoping this post has given you a little bit of perspective and I am wishing you all the best in the upcoming days. You got this!
twenty-somethings 