Boost Your Well-Being

Well, it doesn't look like this shelter-in-place business is going to end anytime soon. And as the weeks turn into months, staying inside can start to take a toll on our overall well-being. You may not even notice that you feel bad. And if you do recognize the negative feelings, they may make you anxious which makes you feel even worse.

It's so important on a regular day to take care of your well-being, but during a global pandemic it is even more important You need to take the time at address your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health. That may sound overwhelming, but I promise it's not. You can add small and simple things to your day to help keep yourself balanced. Here are some ideas for you to consider.

Emotional Health

These are emotional times that we are living in. It's okay to cry. You deserve an emotional release and tears can be so perfect at purifying yourself emotionally. Let yourself go and don't beat yourself up about it.

Take time to reflect on things that you are grateful for. Things may seem really rough, but if you focus on the good you can change your whole outlook. Are you virus-free? Do you have a place to shelter-in-place? Stocked up on toilet paper? Remain focused on the positive and continue to move forward.

Share your thoughts and feelings with others. It's so important to release your emotions instead of bottling them up. Engaging with someone in a positive way will make you feel awesome.

Mental Health

Limit your media intake. Keep the TV off and put your phone down. All of your social feeds, the news and emails can wait and will be there waiting for you when you check back in again. Put on some music, read a book or talk to your family without distractions. You will be amazed at how much there is to do when you unplug.

Social distancing has inspired people to create new ways to connect with each other. I've seen DJs hosting dance parties on Instagram Live, I've taken yoga classes on Zoom and my kids are connecting with their teachers and classmates on Google Hangouts. Connect with others as often as you can. Checking-in is needed now more than ever.

Physical Health

Get moving! You are probably moving around a lot less lately. Maybe you aren't feeling motivated to move at all. Keep it simple. Get outside in the fresh air and take a walk around the neighborhood. (While respecting social distancing etiquette of course.) Find a yoga class on Youtube and loosen up your muscles in a gentle, low-impact way.

Be mindful of what you are eating. What you put into your body has a direct effect on how you feel physically and emotionally. Being stuck at home doesn't mean that you can binge on junk food all day. Try to stick to healthy foods that will leave you feeling light and guilt free.

Everyone is drained. Essential workers are working overtime, parents have become teachers and working from home may have you working more than ever. Make sure that during this time of change that you are getting plenty of rest. Sleep in since you don't have to commute anywhere, indulge in an afternoon nap and make sure you get to bed at a reasonable time. Your body and mind will thank you.

Spiritual Health

It's really easy to overlook your spiritual health, but it is just as important as any other facet of your well-being. Meditating will help you to center and silence your mind which will lead you to become more mindful, intentional and happy.

In these constantly changing and unpredictable times, it is important to keep up with any traditions that you have established to retain a sense of normalcy. Hold on to your faith, beliefs and spiritual practices. They will help to bring a sense of calm into your life.

Your breath and your nervous system are connected. Bring aware of your breathing can help you to cope with your anxiety. Doing a breath work practice can help to calm your nervous system and soothe your anxiety. Just slow down and deepen your breath. That's it.