Reduce Anxiety During Social Distancing
By Kayla Kranda – CC’s Staff
Tips to Reduce Anxiety While Social Distancing.
The COVID-19 pandemic is at the forefront of our minds. Given our current circumstances it is not uncommon to feel a lack of control. Know that you are not alone and that stress and anxiety during these unprecedented times are both completely normal responses. Try to focus your energy on what you can control and let go of the things you cannot.
Here are some simple tips to reduce anxiety while social distancing:
-Stay informed, but also take breaks from reading, watching, or listening to the news. Obsessing over it can feed into your anxiety and fears.
-Get outdoors! Go for a walk or a bike ride as long as it is safe to do so. Physical activity reduces anxiety and depression. Try a virtual exercise class. There are a ton of free videos on YouTube and many local gyms and yoga studios are offering their classes online to keep their members moving.
-Care for your mental health. This is so important! Give mindful breathing or meditation a try. There are plenty of apps including Mindfulness Coach, Calm, or Headspace.
-Connect with loved ones and friends through phone calls, text, or Skype/FaceTime. Discussing your concerns or thoughts with others can reduce anxiety and reassure you that you are not alone. Consider starting a virtual book club to keep you accountable and in touch with others!
-Get creative in the kitchen. Try to recreate a recipe you enjoyed or make something fun with the kids. Challenge yourself to go through your pantry and use up older ingredients.
-What a perfect time to get organized or do your spring cleaning. Do those fixer upper jobs around the house you’ve been putting off or finally go through that junk drawer (we all have one).
-Try to keep as normal of a schedule as possible. This is especially important if you have children. Try to go to sleep and wake up at your regular times.
-Keep your brain active. Read a book, listen to podcasts, do some continuing education, or play some brain games/apps.
-Have fun! Get comfy and watch a movie or that Netflix series you’ve been wanting to see. Watch something funny like America’s Funniest Home Videos or a comedy special/show. My personal fave: a Harry Potter marathon!
Remember, take it easy on yourself during this time. There will be good days and bad days, but know we are all in this together. And there will absolutely be brighter days ahead. I’ve listed some helpful resources below for further reading.
Stay healthy my friends!
Recommended resources:
https://www.behavioralhealth.nd.gov/covid-19
Post Author: Kayla Kranda
Kayla is a PT, wife, and cat mom of 2 who enjoys traveling, running, reading, and all things outdoors.
