Caring for Yourself Through COVID-19
COVID? Oh no no no, we don’t like her! It is no secret that there have been many cons to living through this global pandemic. However, if you ask around, there is always someone saying that they’ve gained more of an understanding about themselves, and their strengths through all of this. COVID19 allowed people the opportunity to endure through the rough times, and enter 2021 with a better sense of themselves. “How do I become better with this,” you might ask. Here are some tips on how to gain more self-awareness throughout these crazy times.
Get interested in a hobby! Having a hobby gives people something to do and get excited about. For example, you could start painting rocks. Painting, or any form of art for that matter, is very therapeutic. Rock painting can be done for oneself, or they can be placed around town so others can find them. This puts a smile on other people’s faces, as well. It’s an extra plus!
Exercising is another great way to feed the body happiness. Now, exercise doesn’t have to mean intense cardio or weight lifting (although those are great options as well). It can mean yoga, playing with your kids and pets, or stretching, too. Even a nice walk outside in some fresh air can open up the lungs and let the soul breathe. The mind needs activities like this to get the body and brain working.
Spend some time out in nature. Step away from technology for a bit to gain more self-awareness. Read a book outside, watch a sunrise or a sunset, go on a walk at a park, etc. All of these will connect you to the earth in a time when we are disconnected from everything else. It is hard to sit at home and stay confined to your interior walls. As humans, we crave interaction, even if that doesn’t mean people. Interactions with the trees are what we’re working with at the moment. Spend some time with Mother Nature because she misses you. Your body will thank you later!
These are just three activities placed on a list of many. COVID has robbed the world of a lot. There is no shame in those feelings that you possess. Everyone needs to allow themselves to feel their emotions. However, dwelling on these negatives won’t allow you to grow as an individual. Therefore, we need to take initiative and turn this obstacle into something worthwhile. This is just the start of a new you, and I am so happy you get to take this journey. Keep pushing, care for yourself, you got this!
-Written by Jessica Skrelunas