5 ways to cope with COVID-19
The outbreak of COVID-19 is creating massive stress and anxiety worldwide. We are being forced to operate in foreign and unfamiliar ways, so it’s ok to feel unsteady, anxious and overwhelmed. There is no book, manual, or protocol to read or follow when it comes to how we should feel. Please know that you are not alone, we might be physically distant but we can still bond and connect as we learn to navigate new territories. We are all in this together and we will get through this together.
Below are 5 tools that I keep coming back to every day to ease my mind and help me be more at peace. I hope they serve you.
Move your body. Moving my body is a nonnegotiable for me. Taking 30 minutes out of my day to move the energy in my body always helps me feel more at ease. The endorphins from exercise always uplift my spirits and help me feel more grounded and focused. Some of my favorite ways to move my body include yoga, a HIIT session, a random dance party in my living room, a walk/ run outside (practicing social distancing of course).
Eat Healthy. These are uncertain times and it’s crucial to be mindful of what and when we are eating. I know that it’s easy to overindulge with all the snacks when we are feeling stressed out (I’ve been there). Whenever I feel sad, alone or anxious, I reach for cookies. I know this is a coping mechanism to numb and I’ve worked with nutritionists and therapists to help me be more mindful when it comes to eating to fuel my body. I’ve found out that planning my meals, and checking in with myself before I reach for another cookie can help me eat in a more mindful way: Am I really hungry or am I just bored? I also aim to buy foods that are healthy and wholesome, foods that can provide maximum nutrition and can fuel me. As always, listen to your body and choose foods that will provide you with fuel and make you feel good.
Practice gratitude. Mental health experts agree that cultivating an attitude of gratitude can greatly help diminish our anxiety. When we practice heart-felt gratitude, we learn to shift our focus from what is not working to what is working. Practicing gratitude is simple. I do it every morning before my feet hit the ground. I bring 3 things to mind that I am grateful for. Usually it goes something like this: Today I am grateful for my strong and healthy body, I am grateful for my loved ones and their health, I am grateful for the opportunity to be of service to the world. Next time you are feeling a bit anxious, try this out. List 3 things you are grateful for. It can be done anywhere and anytime.
Do something that sparks joy. Now that we have much more time on our hands by staying at home, we can invest in doing things that uplift us. Some of the things I’ve been doing is watching funny movies, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, reading, building a puzzle, taking more baths. Anything goes here. Do something (small or big) that brings you joy. It will raise your vibration, it will make you feel good.
Unplug. While being aware of how everything is evolving and unfolding is great, please carve some time to unplug. Focus your energy on connecting with others (from a distance of course). Some of my favorite ways to connect with others is to FaceTime my family and friends and host cute virtual dinners and happy hours. This is also a great time to try new things (from the comfort of your own home of course), like learning a new language, playing an instrument, painting, coding, you name it boo. Use this time to be creative and let your mind get a break from the news and the media.
We are all adjusting to a new normal and with that comes feelings of anxiety and stress. Please be kind to yourself, do things that can help recalibrate your energy and put your mind at ease. I would love to hear how you are #keepingitcute during these times? What are you doing to stay sane and cope with these uncertain times?
If you need to talk to someone, please reach out. You are not alone. Below are some numbers you can also call if you wish to talk to a professional.
Suicide Prevention 1-800-273-8255Mental Health Helpline: 1-800- 662-4357Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741
Sending you all my love,
Gustavo
Originally created for 365 Things Austin.
