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Self Care Ideas during COVID-19

Writer's picture: Vicki CalaVicki Cala

We are 2 months into quarantine and I personally am feeling all the feels! I swing from appreciating this chance to slow down and catch up on projects, to missing my friends and simple things like sitting in a restaurant. Mental health is a big issue right now, so I would like to share some ideas to take care of yourself during this time. One of the most important things I like to do is develop an attitude of nurturing - taking care of my mind, body and soul every day, in small ways and occasionally bigger ways too. Self -care is non-negotiable these days, but you have to make an effort to make space for it. Here are a few ideas for things to do that rebalance, re-energise and replenish.


Do something physically energizing

Make time for it if it makes you feel good. This could be a series of stretches, Pilates or yoga, a run, bike ride or a walk in the park. Just get that body moving in ways that are fun for you.

Stretch it out

Hunched over a desk or in a car? Bodies aren’t meant to be cooped up so stretch it out. Find a set of effective stretches that stops your body feeling like it’s ten years older than it really is. Your muscles will thank you for it. I post stretches on my instagram page but there are lots of free stretching or yoga videos online!

Take a bath

It’s a self-care cliché but for a good reason. If you have the time, shut the door, put some music on, and take a magazine or book in with you. I add some epsom salts, bubbles and a few drops of my favorite essential oil.

Try a mini-meditation

Begin or end your day with just one minute of deep breathing, while focusing your awareness onto your body, inner thoughts, and feelings. This is an exercise that’s also useful to do during the day when you feel stressed and need to take time out.

Be still

Find a quiet place outside, find somewhere comfortable to sit and be still. Pretend there’s nobody else around and focus on the quiet and stillness.

Unplug just for a day

We always used to manage without social media and emails, so just for a day, switch them all off and embrace a notification-free existence. It’s very freeing and you may end up wanting to do it for even longer.

Write a Gratitude List

This is a big one and has been a huge shift for me personally! It's impossible to be in a negative head space while focusing on all of the things that you're thankful for. Try to think of three things every morning or evening. Or when you feel down, refocus with three things to be happy about.

Take a walk

Have you really taken the time to explore the area you live in? Walk around, slowly, and really notice the details. Be curious about your neighborhood.

Make an appointment with a counselor

Find someone non-judgemental to talk to about your innermost thoughts; It doesn’t have to be a therapist or psychologist; it could also be a spiritual mentor.

Sleep

Are you getting enough? Keep your room dark and quiet and try and set a regular time that you are going to bed and waking up at.

Do something new

That thing you’ve always wanted to try? Do it. If you aren't working right now, when else will you have all this abundant time?

Journal your thoughts

It only has to take you 10 minutes – get whatever is on your mind down in writing and out of your head. I like to do it first thing in the morning.

Spend quality time with people you love

Hanging out with the people you love most in the world is good for your soul. Go for a physical distancing walk with a friend. If they're far away, give them a phone call.

De-clutter your life

You don’t have to do it all at once, but decluttering is very therapeutic. Start with an email inbox, work up to your desk or a closet, feel the benefits of less clutter.

Enjoy a piece of chocolate or a glass of wine

Even better, have both! My favorite chocolate is Giddy Yo Yo... it's raw and full of nutrition while being so decadent!

Book a massage!

Once Alberta is open for massage therapy again, I highly recommend booking in for a massage. Not only does it provide pain relief, but massage has been shown to reduce stress hormones. Plus it usually just feels amazing and is an hour of uninterrupted time for yourself!







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