Stay Sane!
As much as we love our loved ones, it can be challenging to remain at home for extended periods of time together. The kids are restless, parents are stressed, and the unknown makes us naturally anxious. Stress and anxiety levels are higher than usual due to the COVID-19 international response and the fear it has developed across our nation.
If you could try just one of these tips below I truly believe it will help you #StaySane.
Tip 1: Sun = Sanity.
Time to soak up the sun! Sun allows our bodies to produce Vitamin D which is essential for many functions in our body including immunity, muscle function, and mental health. Not every place is as sunny as us here in Southern California, so investing in a Vitamin D supplement to #StaySane would be wise!
Tip 2: Practice Gratitude.
Positive Psychology today states, “When we express gratitude and receive the same, our brain releases dopamine and serotonin, the two crucial neurotransmitters responsible for our emotions, and they make us feel good. They enhance our mood immediately, making us feel happy from the inside.” (Neuro.,2020)
Tip 3: Be Creative.
If you have kids get them outside to chalk up the sidewalk. Babies? Create zip locks of glitter, paint, or even food coloring water, and let them play and explore. Pull out old crafts, fabrics, party supplies, and balloons, and do a craft fair with the family. Go on a walk, grab some nice flat rocks, and paint them with positive symbols and sayings. When you go back out for your walk, place the rocks in various places along the routine to make others smile.
On your own? Take up a new hobby, attempt to learn a language, write that book you’ve been thinking of writing, color a mandala, or begin to grow your own garden. There are so many free virtual classes online such as sound healing, breath work, meditations, and yoga- take advantage of them! Go online and participate in a virtual museum tour- anywhere in the world. Finally, get organized and clean out if you haven't worn that garment in over a year it’s time to donate. Extra Tupperware, novelty cups, glassware, books, picture frames, seasoning, random white elephant gifts - Purge! An open space will help you #StaySane
Tip 4: #StayTogether.
Connection is the key to #StayingSane. We are fortunate to live in a world of social connection through a digital platform. Facetime, Zoom, Facebook Messenger, Skype and more allow us to stay connected and maintain social distancing. #StayTogether and connect with family and friends during this time. Set up digital Zoom parties and send free invites with Evite, participate in digital wine tasting, and play games with your friends. Consider going back to basics and writing a letter or postcard to a friend or family member. There are endless ways to stay connected and sane during these times, and it is so important to do so!