With everything going on in the world right now, taking care of your physical and mental health should be considered an essential as well.
It’s in times like these that many people find themselves knowingly or unknowingly experiencing anxiety and depression. Not everyone is able to cope with feelings of uncertainty, failure and rejection and this is why it’s so important to take care of yourself, and check in on your loved ones, even the strong one.
According to Cassey Chambers of SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group), the volume of calls received have doubled during the lockdown and continue to rise.
Here are few things you can do during quarantine to stay healthy, happy and sane:
- REST!
Yes, rest is important. Don’t turn this lockdown into a productivity contest with your mates. We all deal with things differently. While some may choose baking, exercising and smashing some short term goals while in quarantine, the same does not need to apply to you and it’s perfectly okay. Maybe you’ve been working yourself to the bone and the best thing you can do for yourself right now is to rest. Don’t feel guilty about it.
- EXERCISE
Don’t be a couch potato and put on more weight than you need during lockdown. Netflix shows will always be there when you return to your couch, so do yourself a favour and dedicate at least 30 minutes- 1 hour a day for physical exercise. Stretch, walk, jog, hike, meditate and breathe out all that negativity. You’ll feel lighter and happier.
- RESEARCH
Use this time to research and work on all those ideas you didn’t have time to explore when the world was open and busy. Now that you have some time to focus better, explore new ways on living, doing work and exploring what the world has to offer, that way you’ll have your plan all mapped out and ready to go when the world opens.
- Explore old and new ways of making money during this pandemic.
Being home doesn’t give you the excuse to be lazy. Thanks to technology, a lot can be done virtually. Connect with people outside of your regular circle and learn to put yourself /your talents out there. Who knows, you might even start a new business or turn your hobby into one.
- Stay Connected
Just because you can’t leave your house to visit family and friends doesn’t mean you shouldn’t stay in touch. Check in on your loved ones regularly, share jokes, stay positive, send flowers, gifts etc and just do what you can to show them that you care. Not only will that make them feel loved and cared for but it will also make you feel good.
- Stay Safe
When you do have to go out, always remember to wear your mask and wear it correctly (covering both your mouth and nose), use hand sanitiser, keep a 1-2 meter distance from others and wash your hands regularly. Also make sure to sanitise all surfaces in your car and home.
For regular updates on COVID-19 follow WHO (World Health Organisation) on social media or visit www.sacoronavirus.co.za (for updates on South Africa)
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