How are you doing? No, seriously. How are you?
Noticing a change in your daily patterns? Eating more? Sleeping less? Is anxiety starting to set in? Here are some ways that we can deal this:
First, remember that we all react differently to stress.
“You can’t pour from an empty cup.”
In these moments, the uncertainty can be overwhelming. We want to take care of those around us, and we want to know how we can help. Just don’t forget to take care of yourself. Take time to slow down.
Ways to take care of yourself:
- Relax your body. Unclench your jaw, drop your shoulders, stretch, pray/meditate, engage in activities that you enjoy, and don’t forget to breathe!
- Give yourself time. Don’t think that you have to get everything done all at once.
- Share your experiences and feelings with friends and family.
- Keep moving. Maybe it’s time to start running? Or dust off that bike and take it for a spin around the neighborhood. Take your dog on his 15th walk of the day. You know he's been waiting for this moment.
- Keep a positive outlook. Write down what you’re grateful for or things that are going well. Remember, this will not last forever.
Don’t forget to connect with others. Although we aren’t physically near each other, it doesn’t mean that we cannot reach out to others. Friends and family are just a phone call away.
Ways you can support and check in with your loved ones:
- Give them a call. Don’t forget that the telephone works in both ways.
- Send an email.
- Mail them a card or a letter.
- Send them a text message.
- Video chats also work. Who doesn’t want to see a friendly face?
In a time where we all are beginning to feel antsy and overwhelmed, don’t forget that it also means that there is time to stop and relax. Take this time to focus on the people and things that help and have helped you to “calm down.”
We’re all in this together.