With the onset of a global pandemic, social distancing rules set by every country helped to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus. But it had the unintended effect of potentially increasing loneliness for some vulnerable people. The sudden surge in lockdowns coupled with weather changes decreased daylight hours and less social interaction greatly impacted the mental well-being of everyone.
If you think you cannot cope with the stress and anxiety, immediately contact a therapist. Also, there are ways to nourish your mind and help curb depression and stress while you stay indoors. Check out some ideas.
- Make a list of tasks
As our sense of time during the pandemic is distorted, the day feels longer than it did before the pandemic. One thing you can do to relate with the normal circumstances does not give up all sense of routine. Create a schedule of your daily tasks so that you look forward to something. Also, having a sense of routine allows us to get good quality sleep and be functional during the day.
Create a schedule of fun-filled activities and tasks to gain a sense of control and curb anxiety. You can write down activities like exercise, socialization, mindfulness and learning.
- Knock out projects
Make a list of all indoor projects you have been putting off. Do activities like cleaning closets, re-arranging cabinets, clearing out junk drawers, painting, creating picture albums, and so much more.
The satisfaction that comes from accomplishing a task is quite motivating and relaxing. Take some time to finish these tasks up and find more new projects that stimulate your mind.
- Help others
Lend a hand to friends, family, or neighbours who can’t go out and get their errands done. Helping others will instil a sense of achievement in yourself and make you feel accomplished.
Doing a good deed for someone will help release happy enzymes in your body. Even the smallest acts of kindness can have a big impact on others and yourself.
- Move around
As the lockdown continues, gyms and parks are closed everywhere, but this is no excuse to avoid exercise. Use this time to move your body and stay active.
Go out on a walking or jogging session while following COVID-19-related guidelines or you can engage in a virtual exercise session. Also, get your health supplements and multivitamins from https://www.pricepropharmacy.com/online-pharmacy/ that boost your health and give you more energy to exercise. Physical exercise of any kind releases endorphins and serotonin that helps promote happiness.
- Use screens wisely
As our lives have shifted into the digital space due to lockdown restrictions, finding a balance is the key to maintaining sanity. Take control of what you see on social media, print media and television as it impacts our thinking. Do not overwhelm yourself with constant news updates about the pandemic as it might increase anxiety. Keeping away from negative content online will greatly help you keep your stress and anxiety at bay.