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We have been adjusting to what seems to be our new normal. It’s not the same for all of us, but at the same time, we are finding out that we are stronger than we once thought.  A few weeks ago, we were just starting to put new systems in place so that staying at home can be easier. Maybe like me, you also had to put fear aside to make some sense out of what was happening. How was I going to keep my family safe? 

Still, one thing’s for sure, I realized, like many of you probably have, that if this was what life was going to throw my way, then I’m going to take advantage of this time to come out on the other end stronger than ever. For everyone, this may be the time that you pay attention to your health. You are home and are in more control over what you eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can make sure you commit to an exercise program. What a better way to quarantine!

Now, I do realize that some of us may be on the other side of the spectrum. You may feel helpless somedays or that things are out of your control. You don’t need me to tell you how stress that can be, on top of being downright anxiety-inducing.

You are not alone. There are a variety of tactics that you can incorporate into your day in order to take the edge off.

It’s so important now, more than ever, that you stay in touch with your family and friends through social platforms or connect with groups online that have the same interests. Remaining connected despite physical distance is extremely important. Staying isolated is a sure fire way for depression to set in which can then trigger a host of other emotional stuff to creep into an already tumultuous time. 

Anything you do to your body, whether mental, emotional, or physical, has a ripple effect.

This is why we need to take the day into our hands. Don’t view being home as a bad thing. There are so many ways to stay active and have fun that don’t require you to be constantly outdoors.

If you’re struggling with what to do, I suggest that you close your eyes and think of a moment when you said to yourself, there’s not enough time in the day for me to be able to do _________.  Fill in the blank and that should be the basis of your next project. 

Clean out your closet. Do some spring cleaning.

Donate some clothes to your local Boys and Girls club or church.

Take out that cookbook you’ve been meaning to look at. Cook something new you’ve always wanted to try.

Restock your pantry.

Find a spot in your home and set up your very own home office. (Your kitchen table/ dining room table doesn’t count.)

Read more.

Start a 1,000 piece puzzle or maybe pick up scrapbooking – it’s surprisingly calming.

Find those pairs of weights that you have tucked away in the corner, in your closet, or even under the bed and make it work.

If you don’t have weights. That’s ok, but I know you stocked up on water bottles. Take some of those and use them as your makeshift weights. No excuses here.

Long story short is, life is what you make of it. The same goes toward what we are going through now. Don’t let this turn of events get in the way of your commitments you’ve made to yourself. If you promised in the beginning of the year that you’ll stay healthy and “2020 will be your year,” it still can be.

There’s still so much life to be lived and FUN to be had.

But Wait, There’s More!

As a parent, I found that not only did I start to feel down about myself, but I noticed my daughter exhibiting signs of this as well. As a mom, I know it’s painful watching your child struggle and not knowing how to help or support them. Stay tuned for the next post because I will be talking about how to identify if your child is starting to feel anxious, stressed, or depressed. I will also touch on how you can support him/her during these unusual times of social distancing and online school.

BE WELL!  STAY STRONG!  BE SAFE!