Although the pandemic has shaken the world for over a year, it's still hard for us to adapt and care for ourselves. Our sleep quality is still poor, our hands are still dry from using too much hand soap, and our brains are foggy from watching the news and reading all the online chatter.
Here you'll find some useful tips to take a step back and take care of yourself during these uncertain times - all the way from head to toe.
Mental health
Reduce anxiety
Have fun with your family. Keep active. And curb any rash decision-making by remaining open to being vulnerable with your close friends and family.
Ask for help
It is common to be reluctant to ask for help, but it is an important trait to understand during a pandemic. In times of stress, make sure to remember that your loved ones are a resource. You would never shame a close friend for coming to you for help, right? So why treat yourself that way during a stressful time?
Seek out therapy or counseling
If you feel anxious, tense, or angry all the time, if you can't relax, have panic attacks, or have difficulty sleeping or concentrating, it may be worth seeking professional help. There are tons of available online resources for virtual therapy, many of them with very affordable monthly rates.
Cope with social isolation
I think this is actually what FaceTime was invented for. And of course Zoom is pretty much a household staple for connection as well. "See" your friends virtually by setting up video chatting hang out sessions. Other small ways to cope is by implementing routine. Did you know that person can improve their functional ability just by getting up at the same time every day?
Eyes
Get better sleep
You should have a consistent bedtime, reduce alcohol and caffeine intake, eliminate visible alarm clocks, and exercise as much as possible.
Nose
Distinguish between allergies and the virus
Seasonal allergies sufferers should treat their symptoms the same way they would any other allergy. Don't confuse them with Coronavirus symptoms and don't let people give you "the look" when you sneeze or sniffle in public :)
Face
Try not to touch your face
Be mindful of what you allow into your space. Your phone, for example, is likely one of the most germ-ridden objects you own. Make sure to wipe down your household objects and resist touching your face and/or mouth if possible.
Mouth
Take a deep breath
Relaxed breathing can help you to stay calm. You can try a 4-7-8 breathing pattern: Inhale for four counts, hold it for seven and exhale for 8.
Heart
Keep the love going!
Video chats and calls are the best options for partners and friends who live apart. But nothing beats that personal connection and hugs when you're able to be together again!
Embrace remote dating
Skype and FaceTime have been the new hot first date spots. The virtual first date keeps people distant, but it also can enable the ability to really get to know someone on a deep level.
Hands
Moisturize your hands
Do your hands feel dry and cracked after you have been following the widely-recommended advice to wash your hands frequently? If so, moisturize and care for your hands. Your skin is the largest organ, after all and needs some lovin'!
Do not use a hand dryer
You should think twice about using hand dryers in public areas. They can suck bacteria from the air right onto those newly cleaned hands. Surprising but true.
Body
Change your routine
It's the best time to get out your running shoes and begin a run-walking program. You can also start strength training and yoga. It'll help your mental state also. Getting outside to enjoy some fresh air can help you feel less cooped-up in your home.
Intermittent workouts are also possible
You might find mini-sessions that you can do throughout the day, such as push-ups whenever you get up from your desk, to be more beneficial than long gym sessions.
Don't overdo it
It is tempting to spend more time exercising. However you should always listen to your body because intense exercise can cause you to feel run down and harm the immune system. Be sensible and don't push beyond your limits.
Take care of your aches
Your back, neck, shoulders, and other injuries can result from working at home at the computer for long stretches. Take breaks, stretch, and take Epsom salt baths to avoid and soothe those pains.
Get dressed
It is easy to lose your sense of purpose, focus and motivation if you wear loungewear all day. Your clothes define boundaries and mark time.
Stomach
Healthy food
You don't have to rely on frozen or canned foods as long as you are at home. You can still make delicious, nutritious meals.
Enjoy the happy hour
There are many funny drinking memes and "quarantini" recipes in these crazy times, so enjoy letting your hair down a bit... but remember that moderation is key.
Feet
Get up
Lower mortality is associated with taking 8,000 steps, even if you are stuck indoors. Make sure to get up and get moving in regular intervals. Wear good footwear too that will support your movements!
I hope you find some relief and relaxation with these head to toe self care tips. It's important to carve out some time for yourself, especially when the rest of the world seems upside down. You can find more articles like this one on self care, self love, and positive mindsets in my blog posts here.