While the spread of the Coronavirus is still trying to contain, most people now spend three quarters of their daily time indoors. This is an important step because reducing crowds will reduce the number of people infected with the Corona virus. So of course, it is not easy for everyone, on the other hand many people are forced to go out to work, some people have the privilege of staying indoors safely. Therefore, going nowhere and staying indoors are important contributions to the safety of many people.
- Prioritize Sleep
When it comes to maintaining your health and well-being, sleep is always part of the answer. Good and adequate quality sleep keeps your immune system working as well as possible to fight infections such as those caused by the new Corona virus.
Indeed, there is a part of the body’s immune response that occurs only during sleep. Scientists know that sleep is also one of the best ways to control stress, because lack of sleep can make us more sensitive to the effects of stress, increasing our reactions (or overreactions) to stressors. Finally, the brain needs sleep to function. Lack of sleep can make you less patient and focused, and more moody, irritable, and emotional
- Avoid Snacking Without A Purpose
Do you spend your days with a pile of snacks now? Instead of imposing strict rules on what you can and cannot eat, try to eat intuitively. It’s not a diet, it’s a way of eating, it’s all about giving your body only what it needs.
Eating intuitively doesn’t limit certain foods or make you count calories. This is a practice where you listen to your body and pay attention to what you need in the moment. Do you need heavy meals or snacks? You eat when you feel hungry, and you stop eating when you feel full.
- Reach High Protein Snacks When You Need An Energy Boost
What should you ask when you feel hungry? Maintain a high protein diet to help you get to the end of your to-do list for the day. Protein helps you feel full longer and avoids the energy losses you may experience. Eat boiled eggs, nuts, Greek yogurt, and vegetables.
- Keep Stress Relief Foods on Hand
Yes, you read that right. Certain foods can actually have a stress-reducing effect. Think: warm, soothing foods (such as soup or tea) and fatty fish (omega-3s can improve mood). Avocados are packed with vitamins C and B6, which are known to help reduce stress. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which are great for dealing with stress (enjoy a little, as it’s a calorie dense food). Other beneficial foods include wheat, bananas, oranges, water, and green vegetables.
- Practice Kindness and Gratitude
Clinical studies have found that people who regularly practice keeping a gratitude journal (actually writing down what you are grateful for) report better well-being, physical health, and increased optimism about the future. Practicing kindness is sometimes easier said than done (especially when we are in a place where life is really hard), but remember that everyone is going through hard times right now
- Take a few minutes to practice diaphragmatic breathing
Calming down and engaging in measured breathing can have a direct effect on your mental and physical state, whether the tension comes from an endless cycle of news or your always annoying housemates. Do your breathing exercises regularly to start or end your day in a positive way, or try them when you need a little more.
- Meditate On Your Own
You don’t need any special equipment or space for this one, you can do it anytime, anywhere. Meditation is thinking deeply or focusing your mind for a period of time. What it does: Meditation can help reduce stress, relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety, and regulate negative thinking.
- Try Relaxing with Music
Turn off the TV and turn on some mood-enhancing notes. Music therapy uses music to help people cope with physical or emotional needs, according to the University of Minnesota. And it has been shown to reduce symptoms in people with mood problems, such as anxiety and depression.
- Use Social Media with Attention
Social media and other virtual tools let you connect with friends and family even when you’re apart. But they can also have unintended consequences if and when their use becomes excessive or takes up your time. How can you make sure you use it wisely? The more personal your social media interactions, the better, experts say (think of people sending direct messages rather than mindless scrolling). Use these tools on purpose.
Be selective about who you follow and what applications you use. And take the time to disconnect. If you feel isolated, call your friends or family members from time to time instead of making statuses or comments on Facebook.
- Avoid Nonstop News Consumption
It is important to stay informed and be aware of important updates in your area, especially those affecting your health. But people don’t have to listen to the same warnings and headlines over and over. Particularly during times when the news can be disappointing, experts recommend limiting news consumption to two or three sources a day to deal with any anxiety it might cause, and checking at predetermined (not continuous) times of the day for updates. Consider making one of your sources your local news source. And if you can, avoid checking the headlines before bed.
- Get Your Creativity with Coloring Books and Other Art Therapy
Coloring (or any creative or artistic endeavor, such as drawing, painting, or knitting) can be relaxing for many people. For some people, this is an opportunity to remove distractions and focus on one thing at a time.
For others, it is a way of expressing the emotions they are feeling (maybe you paint in bright, bright colors because you are experiencing strong feelings). Don’t underestimate the power of art to help you overcome it!
