I don’t know about your, but I have good days and bad days. Sometimes during the past few weeks, I have been calm and grateful for the opportunity to stay at home, safe with my family. Then on other days, I run as fast as I can through the front door of my house (leaving a Kirby-sized hole in it).
Some days I am the voice of reason saying ” We are doing great! There is a light at the end of the tunnel.” And then other times, I am the one that is near tears saying “Oh my God! When will this end? I miss eating out!”
During the times of stress and internal turmoil, I have come up with a few techniques that have helped get my mind right. They are not fool proof. But I do find they help me. So here are 5 techniques for curing the Quarantine blahs.
Create A Revised Routine
Despite the fact that many of us are either working from home, or not working at all, I think routines are still incredibly important. During normal times, I have a very specific routine to help keep me productive (I talk about that here). Now that things are different, I still have my routine, but I have modified it so I can have a bit more freedom…but still stay on track. On many days, I get up a bit later. I watch a different morning show while I am on the treadmill. Little things, sure. But if you get rid of your routine completely, it can hijack your sense of purpose.
Have A Purpose Each Day
That leads nicely to, have a small purpose each day. This does not have to equate to your purpose in life. It can be small. Your purpose for today might be simple. But it gives you something to do for the day. I think we often think we want “nothing” to do all day. But this is what (I think) is creating the blah we are trying to escape. Create a little goal each day. You can spend an hour working to learn a language, write a blog, create a video, or choreograph a family dance. Whatever your purpose or goal is, it can help you stay up and look forward to the new day.
Exercise
Keep this simple my friends. This does not mean you need to start a new Beachbody workout. Just take the time to get your blood flowing. Exercise helps to reduce stress, increase brain function, and makes you feel better. It can be as simple as a short run or a walk. Don’t overthink this. Get your blood pumping each day. You will thank me.
BE A Friend
During times of stress, we often look for people to be good friends to us. It’s great when that happens, but it’s not in our control. Instead, take a bit of time to BE a good friend to someone. It might not get returned. Not everyone will be a good friend back. It’s okay. Make a phone call to check in. Send a text or an email. Do something nice for your neighbor. Most people will appreciate it…and the world will be better for it.
Meditate or Prayer
One of the tough things about times like this is, our mind seems to be running around looking for reasons to stress and panic. When I feel overwhelmed, this is when I know it’s time to control my thoughts. For me, this comes in the form of some meditation. I am hardly an expert. But this act of controlling my thoughts and quieting my mind can have a profound effect on my day and my mental state.
As I mentioned at the beginning, I am hardly an expert in dealing with a pandemic in isolation. These are just a few techniques that are helping me deal with the quarantine blahs. I hope they help you in some way!
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