Self Care: Unplugging and Making the Best of Social Distancing
Social distancing has caused us to live more isolated but it does not have to be a bad thing. I know I am guilty of turning on Netflix or browsing Instagram for the thousandth time of the day just because I am bored. I was thinking that even though social distancing has been hard it also has given us the time to slow down, reflect and realign our priorities. I challenged myself to unplug from the Internet and TV and focus on caring for myself and being okay with being alone. Here are some of the things I have been doing the past week to care for myself.
Reflection Journal
A reflection journal can be a really great way to process different events that are happening in your life, positive or negative. The act of writing down your unfiltered thoughts and emotions is a great cathartic release and can help you look at a situation more objectively once you work through the emotional aspects. The journal itself also serves as a good reminder to the things you experienced and want to process. Using your reflection journal to write what you are grateful for is also super beneficial because it allows you to reframe your thinking to focus on the positive things in your life and not the negative or things that are out of your control.
Meditation
Through research, meditation has been shown to reverse the negative effects of stress on our cells as well as calm the part of our brain responsible for the fight or flight response. Setting a timer and taking some time to relax and focus on your breathing can help center you and help you work on mindfulness. Do not worry if your mind wanders, just recenter yourself and focus on your breathing again.
Here is a video on Mindfulness Breathing Meditation for Beginners
Go Outside
Spending time outside is a great way to reduce stress, boost mental health and stimulate the immune system. By taking a little bit of time to unplug and be one with nature, it can help you feel more calm and serene. I have been making a cup of tea and sitting in the sun in my backyard for 5 to 10 minutes. I focus on what I am grateful for, my goals and plans for the future. It is a great way to take some time for just yourself and have some one on one alone time.
Spend 5 to 10 Minutes a Day Decluttering
Research has shown that clutter increases our levels of cortisol, which is a stress hormone that is a risk factor for many illnesses. Clutter has also been known to reduce creativity and focus, making it harder for us to work and think. Challenge yourself by setting a time for just 5 to 10 minutes, pick an area of clutter that has been bothering you and just focus on cleaning that area. I finally cleaned out under my bathroom sink and my pantry!
Plant a Seed or Take Care of Your Plants
Planting a seed or taking care of a plant can help relieve stress and center you in the moment. Research has shown that it can even reduce blood pressure and produce a sense of calmness. Getting a plant like a snake plant can also help remove toxins in the air and help you feel calmer. Put on some classical music and water away! 🙂
Stretch or Do Yoga
Stretching or doing yoga can help relieve some of the tension of siting or laying. Set a timer again for 5 to 10 minutes and relax and focus on your breathing as you stretch. Just like meditation, this can help center you and relax your muscles.
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