It is normal to have feelings of stress, being constantly on edge or being hyper vigilant during the outbreak of corona virus (COVID-19). Whether your children are out of school or you are out of work, making the best decision for you and your family is key to managing anxiety during this time. Here are 6 strategies that can help you reduce anxiety as you deal with the COVID-19 pandemic:
Keep A Routine
During these uncertain times, it can be very helpful to have a sense of control of what is going on in your daily life. Keeping a routine can cultivate positive daily habits for prioritizing self-care, such as making time for things that are most important to you. Practicing these self care habits daily can make it easier to keep up with them because they will become your new normal.
Eat Well Balanced Meals
Simple things from skipping meals to having too much caffeine can affect your levels of stress and anxiety. A large part of practicing self care is to nourish your body properly, so it is important for you to not skip meals even in times of stress. It can also be easy to overindulge in some unhealthy foods while spending long periods at home because you have easy access. Instead, try eating nutrient rich foods that will help improve your mood, energy and your immune system.
Exercise
Studies show that regular exercise helps reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety. While many of the gyms are closed during this time, you can find ways to exercise at home through work out videos or going out for a simple walk in the park. Doing this can also help give you more energy and have better sleep.
Practice Mindfulness
Practicing mindfulness means having the ability to be fully present, aware of our surroundings and not being overly reactive and overwhelmed by what is going on around us. We can do this by incorporating meditation into our daily routine which helps restore balance, has us feel less stressed and think clearer.
Stay Connected
While a lot of us are practicing social distancing to fight the spread of corona virus, it is important that we reach out and connect with our loved ones via phone call, a text or a video chat. Talking to people in your life that you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling can positively impact your mental well being.
Get Professional Help
Most therapists in Toronto, and throughout Ontario, are now offering virtual therapy on phone or video. It can help speaking to a professional who can give you tools to get you through this difficult time. If you don’t have a lot of privacy right now in your home try going for a walk and talk. Grab your phone and treat yourself to some fresh air and support.
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