The current pandemic is a testing time for all of us. The strict quarantine and social distancing rules may help to contain the spread of the virus, but these unusual deviations from our natural lifestyle may introduce us to higher levels of stress. During this period, it’s highly important to maintain a strong state of mind and not let this stressful period get to our heads.
Here are 5 strategies that can help you fight stress and maintain better wellbeing throughout the pandemic.
1. Control your digital usage
Browsing the internet all day may help us stay occupied and fight boredom, but its excessive and negative use can also reinforce our stress and anxiety. Watching excessive news about the pandemic or the harms it has caused may cause your anxiety to spiral out of control. Get your news from trusted media outlets from time to time, but don’t get obsessed with it. Excessive digital usage all day every day can lead to increased stress and even burnout. Limit the time you spend on your digital devices and try to take regular screen breaks during the day.
2. Create a busy routine
Following an inactive and repetitive lifestyle in the absence of socializing is bound to lead to boredom and increased stress. Bring some variety into your routine and see what other things you can do around the house. Is there any home improvement you’ve been putting off? Now is the best time to do it. Work in your garden, decorate your house, organize your room, etc. Staying occupied in different meaningful activities will help you fight boredom and be less stressed.
3. Keep in touch with your loved ones
Social media can be a helpful tool in fighting loneliness and helping us stay connected. Keep in touch with your friends and family and see what they are up to. Look up your old friends on Facebook and spark a conversation about how their life has been. You can play online videogames to virtually hang out with your friends. Socializing and being in contact with your circle can ward off negativity and help you tackle stress effectively.
4. Take care of the essentials
Getting proper sleep, taking a proper diet, and exercising is often overlooked, but taking care of these matters can have a tremendous benefit on our mental health and overall wellbeing. Exercising in particular is a great natural remedy for stress. There are plenty of exercises that you can do in your house without any equipment such as squats, pushups, running in place, or skipping rope(if you have one). Having a regular workout routine can have a therapeutic impact on your mental health and it helps release tension and built-up stress.
5. Expect some stress
Big changes have been made in the way you usually spent your life. Professional, personal, and social life have changed drastically. If you’re feeling more stressed than usual, then it is completely natural under such circumstances. You’re bound to experience some agitation and stress, but you have to keep an eye on the behavior of yourself and others as you will feel such changes in mood during this time period. Practice self-care to avoid stress and try to avoid having arguments with your family and be calm with others.