Staying inside for extended periods of time will take its toll on anyone, regardless of how mentally fortified one may be. However, as creatures of habit, now is a pretty good time to turn a negative into a positive and develop some healthy ones. Creating routines at home will help these wild times pass with ease, develop healthy habits, all while relieving some pent up energy and stress (pent up = overflowing). Below are a handful of examples of healthy habits that may provide the stability, strength, and stress relief needed.
1. Get to know your neighborhood:
Whether going old fashion and writing your neighbors a weekly letter if you really commit burn the edges of the letter to make it look antique and send it by carrier pigeon...or using technology to connect via neighborhood applications like Nextdoor, MyCoop, Olio, Ioby, Lets not forget about the good side of social media -- there is never a better or easier time to develop a connection with those around you. Building a sense of community builds camaraderie.
2. READ / PODCASTS (-:
It may be a simple hack to pass time, but that doesn't decrease the effectiveness. I'm sure you have been told or saw somewhere that reading is beneficial and that many successful people read more than the average individual. If you haven't, take it from HealthLine magazine in THIS ARTICLE to understand some of the benefits it can have on you (one being it reduces stress equally as humor or yoga). Plus this is a great time to learn more about new subject material, read a thriller that you have been recommended in the past, or refine your understanding of a topic you're already a pro at. Book, tablet or computer, or an audio book ... all great ways to shut off the netflix or hulu and better your mind. Podcasts provide a similar break from TV time and give us all fresh perspective of familiar topics, knowledge on new areas of interest, or a just a friendly voice to talk about current events. Regardless of the topic, there are millions of people who are willing to share their time by taking into a microphone and allowing others to listen.
3. Fitness:
No surprise this on the list. If you don't know by now that fitness is a great outlet for stress relief now you do. Boosting endorphin levels, raising self confidence, and preparing you better for everyday movements are just a few examples, but don't just take it from me. HERE is a great article from mayo clinic highlighting a few benefits of exercise. Starting with a strong goal is often a catalyst for success (a study has proven 33% increased likelihood of success when writing your goal down found HERE). Having a designed program that has been proven to work and in alignment with your goals is another step towards achieving a healthier lifestyle.
4. Cooking:
Everybody misses being able to go out for bite, but now is a time to have some fun with your chef skills. They may come in handy in the future. Also, you can really control what you eat by controlling your environment. Plus, no one wants to spend more time in the grocery store than necessary at this time. Using applications like Kitchen Stories, or Side Chef to learn fast easy recipes and decadent 4 course meals
5. Give Back:
It really is as simple as it sounds. With proper social distancing precautions, now is the time to help serve each other. Support those in your community that may need it, help clean your surroundings or a park nearby, and stay informed on what you can still do to volunteer and help during a pandemic.
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