Last weekend I found myself anxious. I kept hearing little bits online about this virus. I started to get scared. I also realized I hadn’t done many of the things on this list. I put my phone down, went for a walk and saw a noticeable change in how I felt. I wanted to share what helped me and hope it can be a help to you.
Read scripture and pray
Anchoring your day in these two things is pivotal in any day no matter the current state of our nation. Fear is our human response. Acknowledge the fear and the fact that hope in God cannot exist at the same time. Believers in Christ could share so much hope and security to those around us right now!
Make a list
This amount of time available to most of us can be overwhelming at times. Make a personal list or even a list as a family for the day. Include things like the below list.
Move your body
Walk, find a workout on Youtube with your kids. Go ride your bike, go for a hike.
Get Dressed
There is nothing wrong with yoga pants and a hoodie but for days in a row it can take a toll on us. Shower, put on a real shirt, maybe some earrings and mascara. Even if we are staying home we can still get ready for the day.
Create Something
I have a blanket I have been crocheting for 3 years now. I am bound and determined to finish it within the month!
Clean something
Spring cleaning or even just a quick de clutter project. This does so much for our mental health.
Turn off the tv
Or the phone, or the computer. Being informed does not mean we push ourselves into anxiety.
Get fresh air
Sun and fresh air do a world of good for us all.
Check in on someone
Not touching other people doesn’t mean not keeping in touch. A quick call can really help someone who lives on their own get through the day.
Rest
I know that many folks are still working and I am very grateful for those people but many of us have an atypical amount of time on our hands. This is a great time to start the day a little later and even go to bed earlier.
It is a very surreal time for all of us. I find an odd comfort that we are all being effected the same way. I pray you are safe and healthy and find joy in the current circumstances. Extra time with family, less rushing to activities, more time to read or work on home projects. There is gratitude to be found. Thank you for reading!
I love your ideas and we have been trying to do the social distancing. Hard habits to break when we want to but people at church.
This is great, Melis. I totally agree. It is so important to be productive and get dressed…noticed I wasn’t doing that enough for too long so changed it today!