7 Ways to Stay Sane and Even Have Fun During the Coronavirus Pandemic
You are probably overwhelmed with the amount of info coming your way in these wild times. As schools are closing and we are practicing social distancing, here are some ways to stay healthy and mentally well while things are shifting around you.
Stay Active
Staying active is one of the most important ways we can support our bodies and minds in times of stress, illness, and isolation. As we practice social distancing, we need to remain as active as possible. Going for walks and playing outside are great for keeping us feeling our best mentally and physically. Do a jumping jack challenge with your kiddos or challenge everyone in the house to see how many sit ups or push-ups you can do. Set up the living room as a gymnastics zone for a day or so and have a talent show to show off everyone’s routines (you have to practice to be good). Great way to fill time off from school and stay active.
Boost Your Immune System
As the possibility of illness swirls around us, we know that stress is not great for immunity. Managing stress is possible even when things are uncertain or upsetting. Meditation, yoga, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique or Tapping), and mindfulness practices help immensely. Our minds are so powerful. We know this because of things like the placebo and nocebo effects. If we focus only on the (very real) difficulties around us, our minds will feel only the stress. We have to consciously choose to focus on calming and positives. Meditation focused on building immunity or reducing stress can absolutely help in situations like this.
Many of my favorite medical and wellness folks are posting ways to boost your immune system. Try out some new things if you feel like you could use a boost. My favorite resources are Dr. Maryska Taylor, Dr. Aviva Romm, Mommypotomus, and Root + Revel. My favorite immune boosters are Vitamin C, Elderberry, and dancing! Which brings me to my next recommendation.
Have a Dance Party
Music, especially when combined with movement, is something that helps with happiness and joy which are important in maintaining both mental and physical well-being. I personally love challenging my friends and their kids to dance offs. We send each other silly videos of our most wild dances and challenge them to top it. This can go back and forth for a while! I’m currently jamming out to 80s tunes.
Make a Pandemic Bucket List
Many of the parents I see have a lot of stress over keeping their kids busy over long summers. So I often recommend creating a “bucket list” together. Read More…