10 WAYS TO REDUCE COVID-19 STRESS WHILE STAYING IN

Just wanted to reach out to you at this difficult time to say that I’m thinking of you and hope that you well and are able to gather strength and remain calm during this chaotic time. 

I know that we will get through this COVID-19 global epidemic as a nation.

I have taken it upon myself to actively minimize the overwhelming stress and anxiety I have been feeling from constantly watching and listening to news outlets about the outbreak. Trying to predict how long this will last is draining and futile. I am forcing myself to live in the present and to think and do what is most needed now in order to see this through.

A few things that has helped me greatly so far:

1. Cutting down my time watching the news updates to 30 mins maximum is sufficient to be updated on what I need to know.
2. Formulating a strict daily schedule of activities to occupy my day such as organizing my closet; catching up on reading; doing my taxes etc.
3. Doing work from home or at the store with no distractions helps me to feel productive.
4. I have found meditation and exercising to be extremely helpful in keeping me calm and being able to think more clearly.
5. Checking in on family and friends helps me stay connected and grateful.
6. Cooking healthy meals keeps my energy up during the day.
7. Taking extra good self care with my skincare routine is something I look forward to every morning and evening. I also have relaxing baths in the evening with lighted candles while listening to my favourite music. This ritual has allowed me to fall asleep quickly and soundly.
8.  I am reading tons more to get my mind off of what is happening around the world.
9.  Making a list. What happens when we all get back to our normal lives? What has this event taught me about where I want to go from here? What are the things that I have been putting off that I will do. 
10. Finally, I remind myself that being in good health is one of the greatest gifts we can have and I pray everyday for fewer and fewer people to be infected and for this virus to dissipate as soon as possible.

Stay In, Stay Healthy

Althea Johnson

Proprlifestyle.com