It’s easy to feel nervous about what is here and what is coming. From the stock market, COVID-19, and toilet paper disappearing off the shelves, it’s no wonder we are all a little on edge.
Despite last year, the previous four years, I worked from home every day. It can be extremely solitary, which can be as tough as social creatures. Here is a few ideas that have helped me.
1. Connect with your family and friends. Whether it's via FaceTime, Skype, Google Meet, or other video conferencing, share your experiences and fears. Cuddle with your animal, whether stuffed or real.
2. Continue exercising. Find those old exercise DVDs, YouTube workouts, or dumbbells. Use your body weight and walk up and down the stairs. Go outside, if you can, and walk around the block. Staying healthy is crucial during these times.
3. Mediate. Reduce stress before sleep, turn off your phone and TV, and listen to 10-minutes of relaxing sounds. Take deep breaths, count to 10. Set your worrying aside for a specific time and place.
4. Read, write, draw, color, and paint. Use this time to connect with your family at home and get in touch with your inner child. Look at old pictures, paint your nails, or relearn Cat's Cradle.
As a society, we’re in this together, and we need to keep encouraging each other. Talk to friends and family, keep active, and breathe. Express your concerns, and know that you are not alone. We’ve got this!