How I'm Handling Stress During Uncertain Times

How I'm Handling Stress During Uncertain Times:

With the current pandemic, I thought I would share some helpful tips that are helping me stay sane through all the unknown. How are you doing?

Reach Out To Others-

Being selfless in these times has really helped me get out of my own head and way. Reaching out to others by a phone call, text or a message on social media with encouragement or just checking in can make so much of a difference to people who are alone or just in need. It has also given me a sense of connection in these times of quarantine. I received a couple of cards from family and a friend that I appreciated so much. Treat others how you want to be treated! Being more present in the lives of those in your home matters. Listening, connecting and communicating about feelings, desires, worries, and stress can really make a difference in your relationships. Are you keeping in touch with people?

Keep a Normal Schedule-

Keeping a somewhat normal schedule has helped my sanity. In this strange time, with being quarantined in our homes (unless you are still working) and only essential travel when necessary, having a typical routine is beneficial. Things like making your bed, getting dressed, brushing your teeth and all the things I would normally do have helped my mental state. So stick with what is somewhat standard for you. There's enough unexpected around us. Waking up and going to bed at the same time has also been helpful for me. Getting adequate sleep is key, especially during stressful situations. Of course, no one is perfect but we're all doing the best we can in these times. Enjoying the little things in life and finding appreciation in everything has been a game-changer to my emotional wellbeing. Give it a try. What are you thankful for? 

Move Your Body Daily-

This has become essential to my life over the last few years. Why should it stop now? Were you going to the gym or taking fitness classes before all this happened? YouTube has so many free workout videos and a lot of the local gyms are doing live streaming workouts. Fitnessblender.com also has a ton of strength, cardio, yoga, kickboxing, pilates, and HIIT cardio workouts. What a different world we are in. There are so many different ways to move your body. Even taking a walk or a run is a great option, even though that can be different these days with social distancing and some parks and trails closed or just too many people. Daily intentional movements can really do so much for your mind, body, and soul. Being outside in nature is a wonderful thing because of fresh air, sunshine, and all the new spring growth. It's so gorgeous out there and it helps clear the mind of all the junk.

Eat To Nourish and Keep Your Immune System High-

Eat real whole foods as much as possible. Grocery store trips are fewer these days but aren't we all learning how to plan ahead a little bit more during these times? Try having your standard three meals and a couple of snacks throughout the day rather than grazing all day because we're at home. Be as mindful as you can on how much sugar you consume because sugar, along with processed foods, lowers your immunity. Let me suggest that meal prepping is a great habit to start or continue. Having meals and healthy snacks planned and available can really be a time saver. Just a little bit of planning makes a lot of sense. We have been reducing our food waste by just being more conscious about eating leftovers and outlining meals a little more. We're practicing creating better habits overall around here. How's your nutrition going? 

Do Things That Make You Happy-

Finding things that make you happy and being supportive of other's peacefulness is key at this time. I've found that being more gracious with myself and others can really help. Hobbies can be a good way to get those feel-good endorphins up. What about learning something new like sewing, cooking, painting, taking that online course, reading that book or pushing yourself to a higher level of life? Podcasts have become one of my outlets during these times. Learning lots. We all could use a bit of bettering and growing ourselves. We have a pause, let's use it for good, friends. Cleaning up the spaces you are in and cleaning up even your mental state is essential. How are you feeling at this moment? You might ask those people you are living with. Let's love those around us a little more, even ourselves, cause we can all benefit from love!

What other things are you doing to create peace in these uncertain times?

Nehemiah 8:10 "Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength."

Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."​