Self-care is often the first thing that gets sacrificed when life is stressful, and people often think that taking time for themselves seems indulgent. But looking after your own wellbeing will help you get through this challenging time and will help you to better care for others. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed by it all, be reassured that this is a very normal response. However, it’s important to go easy on yourself and to take time for self-care.
The notion of ‘self-care’ today looks quite different than the traditional self-care activities we’re accustomed to. An afternoon at the spa or salon, or a relaxing deep tissue massage is often the go-to self-care regimen.
Self-care while remaining socially distant, though, means finding new ways to put yourself first and make time to attend to your needs in a way that both minimizes your exposure to COVID-19 and keeps others safe as well. A few easy and safer self-care tips during this global pandemic include:
- Get in the car, turn on the radio, and go for a solo drive
- Don some headphones and walk or jog around the neighbourhood
- Pray, meditate, or write in your journal
- Watch an uplifting movie
- Get more sleep (if possible)
Taking a relaxing bubble bath after the kids have gone to bed, spending time shaping your eyebrows, or watching makeup tutorials online can give you that lift you need, perhaps you want to play a video game or watch re-runs of the footy. Just a few quiet moments to yourself can truly change your perspective.
When you take time for yourself and give your body the food, rest, and activity it needs, you will actually have more energy to meet the demands of daily life – however unusual they might be. Bringing more balance to your daily routine during lockdown will help you be more productive and more resilient to stressors.
Even if an in-person meet-up is off the table, try to stay in touch with your mates via text, Messenger, WhatsApp, FaceTime, or (gasp!) a good ol’ fashioned phone call. Ask them how they’re feeling and share your own experience if you feel safe to do so.