Covid-19 is one of the most infectious pandemics in human history. With a global health crisis of this size, feelings of fear, anxiety, and even sadness and anger are normal, but choosing how to deal with these feelings is something only you control. If your normal routine is affected by Covid-19, don’t despair. This can actually be the perfect opportunity to turn your love and focus inward and do some self-reflection.

Love yourself

Chances are your priorities have already shifted in the past few weeks, and you have gained a more personal outlook on the world around you, and on the things that matter to you. Being alone has a way of making us more aware of our thoughts and feelings, both positive and negative. Instead of ignoring this, take note of it, write it down, get reacquainted with who you are, love yourself, and gently affect change if needed. Don’t be afraid of giving yourself a mental hug, a positive affirmation, or a long hot bath with a soothing scented candle. Be kind to yourself, be gentle, and be loving.

Love your body

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), changes in sleep and eating patterns and increase consumption of cigarettes, drugs, and alcohol are known signs of stress due to an infectious disease. During this difficult time, show yourself love, and take care of your body. You can use the extra time you have to cook nutritious meals. Not only will this direct your time and thoughts into something productive, but it will also help you boost your natural immunity with vitamin-rich ingredients. If you feel the need to increase your alcohol intake to cope with the situation, try to focus on other activities to keep your thoughts from racing and keep your day happily busy.

Stretch and breathe

There are also activities you can do to strengthen your bond with yourself. Meditation and yoga are outlets that will help you connect with yourself, spend your time productively, and keep your mind and soul healthy. Instead of worrying, roll out your yoga mat, and you will walk out of this with a stronger body and mind, and a better understanding of who you are. And for now, they will help you breathe.

Playtime

Instead of obsessing over every bit of news, take time off and do something you enjoy. While it is important to stay up to date, the onslaught of breaking and just in reports can be overwhelming and can leave us feeling helpless and scared. If you find yourself feeling this way, it is a good idea to disconnect for a while. Instead of spending all your time reading the news, you can dedicate a specific time for catching up with Covid-19 related snippets and fill your day with other activities instead. Did you try to learn knitting only to quit because you are too busy? Get the yarn out, search for videos on YouTube and try again. Or maybe you can tackle that book reading goal, catch up with some Netflix shows you were missing out on, or discover new music.

Conclusion

There is no denying that we are going through one of the most stressful international situations, but this doesn’t mean you have to surrender to negative thoughts. It is in hard times that we need love and supports the most, and now is the time to love yourself. Remember, this too shall pass.

Sources

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html

https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/coping-with-stress.pdf?sfvrsn=9845bc3a_2

https://www.visualcapitalist.com/history-of-pandemics-deadliest/