Taking care of yourself and lowering stress is very important right now! Here are some ways to do just that!
Exercise
There are tons of free video's online and some instructors are live-streaming their classes from home. If you are not in actual quarantine, go for a walk or run outside, go out in your backyard, while keeping your distance from others. If you are in quarantine - video's and live streams are your friend! Go in your backyard if it's safe.
Meditate
There are lot's of resources online. Check out Angela's Meditation & Mindfulness page:
She even has a virtual Meditation Candle you can use for focus!
Limit your time online
Looking at the News, Social Media and other sites giving you anxiety or upsetting you?
STOP LOOKING!
Get offline and go do something else on this list! Or anything else - give yourself a break! If you do decide to go back or stay online - try looking at content that is upbeat, uplifting, take a virtual museum or aquarium tour or look at something related to something else on this list!
Take a bath
A relaxing bath can do wonders! Add bubbles (I like bubbles!), salts, oils, candles, and face masks, soft or relaxing music!
Think about what you’re grateful for
You can do this in a journal, writing down one gratitude a day, or doodling in a sketchbook. You can get creative using something like a jar or box. Decorate it and then on slips of paper write what you are grateful for on them and put them in the container. You can do his for positive affirmations too! I like using a jar and call it "Jar of Positivity"!
Embrace a hobby
Start a hobby or engage in one that you really do just for fun. Maybe it's something you keep meaning to get to but just don't think you have time. Give it a try! Relatedly, do something with your hands: crocheting, beading, embroidery, coloring, drawing, sewing, woodworking can provide great release.
Read out loud
I like it when Angela reads to me! Read stories to each other, read anything! Read outloud to yourself, your pets, even your own Emotional Support plushy! Also - Just Read! You can even use audiobooks!
Cook and bake
Cooking can be fun, relaxing (the smells are wonderful!), it can be a great activity for families! (and teach kids about measurements, home economics type skills too!) And if you need help eating all that food and baked goods....try your elderly or shut in neighbor!
Do video therapy
Many therapists are offering teletherapy as an option for their patients! Check out Angela's Teletherapy page:
Humphrey the Guinea Pig says: "Meeting with my counselor from the comfort of my own home is great!"
De-clutter
Organize closets, reaarrange some furniture, clean out and organize the filing cabinet etc.... Relatedly - Open the windows and let fresh air and sunlight in! Air out the house! Dust, vacuum etc.
Watch something upbeat
Watch videos, movies, shows that are upbeat, funny and that you find fun!
Play a Game
Board games, card games, role playing games, educational games, video games all can provide a good distraction from stress! They can promote socialization and even skill building!
Hang out with your pet
Just look at how cute your little critter is! Teach your dog a new trick. Brush or groom your pet, take your pet for a walk (as long as you have a proper leash, pet stroller etc to take them with). Play with your pet! Have a fashion show with your Guinea Pig or make a video of your pet.
Learn something new
There are so many online classes! Many are free! Check them out! You can learn all kinds of things from coding and languages to needlepoint and DIY projects!
Remember that you’re not alone
These tips are about self-care. Humans are social creatures and need community to be happy. So don't forget to reach out. Call, email, video chat/facetime, write to friends, family, coworkers, neighbors - reach out for you and for others! Make sure you reach out to those who are alone, shut in and live alone. Also: if you’re able, consider helping a neighbor in need of a groceries etc.
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