I remember writing blogs back in April on 1) Things we can do at home and 2) Ideas small business can do while being closed. Who new almost one year later I would be writing this. Who is feeling it way harder this time around? I KNOW I AM! If you are, you are not alone. Being in a second lockdown.... in the winter... and if you are closed with your business...it is not fun, right!? I have been shut down with my business since December 14 for some of you it is the same and for some of you it is even longer. Whether you are shut down with work or not this second lock down has not been fun! If you know me you know I am super positive and although I am .....I also am human. So yes I still cry, I still feel down and sad and every emotion! Being positive does take work and energy and it took me a while to get here. I am all about self love and self healing. I have found things that work for me to release my stress and emotions. What I try to do is not let myself fall in the funk too long. I like to "shake it off" but I do give myself time to release, weather that means crying, running, reading certain books, or calling a friend and letting it out, whatever it is to make me feel better. I listen to my body and make sure I respond to it and give it what it needs.
Here are some tips I want to share with you that have been helping me get through some tough days!
Focus on the things you can control
There are so many things outside of our control right now, including how long the pandemic lasts, how other people behave, and what’s going to happen in our communities. If we keep focusing on questions with unknown answers and circumstances outside of our control, this strategy will get us nowhere—aside from feeling drained, anxious, and overwhelmed.
Plan for what you can
It’s natural to be concerned about what may happen if your workplace closes, your children have to stay home from school, you or someone you love gets sick, or you have to self-quarantine. While these possibilities can be scary to think about, being proactive can help relieve at least some of the anxiety. Talk to your friends and family and discuss all the things you guys want to do when things get lifted. Having some things to look forward to in times like know is always a good feeling. I know this always makes me feel good!
Stay connected—even when physically isolated
Humans are social animals. We’re hardwired for connection. Isolation and loneliness can exacerbate anxiety and depression. That’s why it’s important to stay connected as best we can and reach out for support when we need it, even as we cut back on in-person socializing.
Make it a priority to stay in touch with friends and family.
While in-person visits are limited, substitute video chatting.
Social media can be a powerful tool—not only for connecting with friends, family, and acquaintances—but for feeling connected in a greater sense to our communities, country, and the world. It reminds us we’re not alone.
That said, be mindful of how social media is making you feel. Don’t hesitate to mute keywords or people who are exacerbating your anxiety. And log off if it’s making you feel worse.
Don’t let coronavirus dominate every conversation. It’s important to take breaks from stressful thoughts about the pandemic to simply enjoy each other’s company—to laugh, share stories, and focus on other things going on in our lives.
Take care of your body and spirit
My favourite thing. Taking care of your body, mind and spirit. Such as eating healthy meals, getting plenty of sleep, and meditating. Beyond that, here are some tips for practicing self-care.
Be kind to yourself. Go easy on yourself if you’re experiencing more depression or anxiety than usual. You’re not alone in your struggles.
Maintain a routine as best you can. Even if you’re stuck at home, try to stick to your regular sleep, school, meal, or work schedule. This can help you maintain a sense of normalcy.
Take time out for activities you enjoy. Read a good book, one book that I find helpful is a book I recommend to many people called "Find Your Happy" Check out the link: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1582706719?ref=exp_natural_lash_dp_vv_d
Watch a comedy! I find myself doing this often! I enjoyed Kevin Hart on Netflix! I follow many comedians on instagram. Laughing is so important. Play a fun board or video game, make something—whether it’s a new recipe, a craft, or a piece of art. It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as it takes you out of your worries.
Get out in nature, if possible. Sunshine and fresh air will do you good. Even a walk around your neighbourhood can make you feel better.
Find ways to stay active. Staying active will help you release anxiety, relieve stress, and manage your mood. While gym and group classes may be out, you can still cycle, hike, or walk. Or if you’re stuck at home, look online for exercise videos you can follow. There are many things you can do even without equipment, such as yoga and exercises that use your own bodyweight.
Take up a relaxation practice. When stressors throw your nervous system out of balance, relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can bring you back into a state of equilibrium. Stay thankful and positive! Keep all situations and circumstances in proper perspective. You can download many apps on your phone which allow you to do you own at home meditation. My favourite app is called "Let's Meditate"
Love Jessica
XOXO
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