8 Wellness Tips for Quarantine

8 Wellness Tips

for Quarantine

During this strange and stormy season of pandemic and quarantine, it is easy to feel alone and fearful of the future. Having spent ample time with friends, family and counselees where the singular focus was COVID-19 and how to cope with virus-related fears and anxiety, I decided to make a short list of wellness tips that I hope is helpful to all.

We can't control a lot of what is going on right now, but we can certainly help and encourage one another through word and deed!

In an effort to add to what everyone knows about hand washing and social distancing to help reduce the spread of the Coronavirus, I’d like to add a few suggestions (a few tips) to help us all deal with the stress associated with this pandemic in a healthy way. Let’s challenge ourselves and each other to stretch and grow in every way during quarantine; taking the time to reflect on what is really important in our lives!

#1 Stay positive. While the coronavirus threatens your physical health, the “virus” of negative thinking can threaten your mind-set and attitude. Right now, it’s more critical than ever to guard your heart and mind. Instead of allowing your outlook to be invaded by pessimism, anger, or fear, consider your blessings and be thankful!

#2 Reach out to others. Social distancing doesn’t mean you have to be isolation. Reach out to your friends and family and talk and connect via phone or FaceTime, Google Hang-out, Zoom, or whatever format you prefer to reach out to your loved ones. With all of the technology we have at our fingertips, make use of your social network so, even though you have to keep your distance, you don’t feel alone and isolated.

#3 Help others. Find ways, big and small, to give back to others. Reach out to a neighbor who may need help. Be mindful if you have a neighbor who may be in the “at-risk” population. If you are heading out to the store, ask them if they need anything that you can pick up for them. This will not only help them, it will also help you. Simple acts like these can go a long way and will also make all of us feel better.

#4 Move your body. During stressful times something as simple as going outside and taking a brisk walk can help you relax, boost your mood and help you in managing your stress levels. Some form of exercise for 30 minutes each day is a great goal!

#5 Eat healthfully. This one may seem obvious, but stress and eating often don’t mix well. We find ourselves over-indulging, forgetting to eat, and/or avoiding food. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, eat some good and nutritious foods, and maybe even challenge yourself to learn how to cook something new!

#6 Stick to a routine and get enough sleep. Go to sleep and wake up at a reasonable time. Create a schedule for yourself that is varied and includes time for work as well as self-care.

#7 Watch the news in moderation. While it is important to stay informed and up to date on the latest information about the Coronavirus, too much information adds to our stress levels. The repetitive nature of the news reports is not good for our mental health. Once you are informed, turn off the news and do something that you enjoy; read a book, play a game, or watch a good television show or feel-good movie.

#8 Pour out your anxieties to your Father in Heaven. Don’t fret inside your own heart with worries about employment, travel plans, economic downturns, or the potentially infected surfaces you’ve touched! When you are afraid, turn to him. Cast your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. In fact, let handwashing or rubbing on hand sanitizer become a moment in which you consciously entrust yourself and the future of everyone you care about into his hands.

Remember that with intentional focus and proper care we will navigate the tumultuous waters of this peculiar season! Will you join me as I pray that I’ll not only get through this COVID-19 crises, but that I’ll rise to the challenge of becoming a better person in the process!

Most importantly, know that being anxious at a time like this is a completely normal response. However, should the stress become too much for you to take, please seek professional help if necessary.