The COVID-19 pandemic is reaching a global peak. While most of us are practicing self-isolation and social distancing, the main focus as been to prevent the spread of the virus to others by strengthening our immune system. At the same time, this is a great opportunity for us to nurture and replenish the body, mind, and spirit. Stress and immunity have a strong correlation. Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as exercising, trying new hobbies, learning to cook/bake, etc. can help us cope and provide a much needed positive distraction for the current situation. These are always to ways you can take action to improve one's own health. Another form of self-care is in staying connected with our community. As 'Stay at home' orders continue to spread across our cities, let's use this time to check-in with family and old friends by calling, texting, video chatting, or even writing a letter.
Practicing Self-Care During a Lockdown
Now is your chance to fully commit to a healthy eating routine and exercise regimen. Self-care practices do not have to be expensive or elaborate. A simple 10-minute meditation, walking/hiking through nature, taking an online class are all ways to take care of yourself and decompress.
Exercise
Thanks to the fast speed of the web, wellness programs, and exercise classes can be accessed from all around the world. Let's utilize the internet to our advantage in trying a new yoga or HIIT class. Lots of instructors are starting to live-stream their classes so you can participate from home with thousands of other like-minded people. Otherwise, if you are not actually quarantined, go out for a walk or bike ride around the neighborhood, just remember to mind the 6 feet rule in distancing yourself from others. Fresh air can do the body good!
Cooking time
For some, cooking is an intimidating task. But let's keep an open mind. You can pick a different region of the world to theme your next family dinner around. This will allow you to explore and appreciate a new style of cooking, spices and maybe even learn a new cooking technique. Who knows, you might be a master chef in the making!
De-clutter
Take one room at a time to organize the drawer that has been begging for order, rearrange the living room furniture or finally coordinate your closet to the different seasons. Clean homes and organized spaces are proven to reduce stress, improve happiness and even improve your eating and exercise habits.
Cozy-up
Grab a cozy blanket, cup of tea and that book on your bedside table that you never get around to reading. A mystery or suspenseful novel is the perfect way to find escapism from the world's troubles. If you do not have any books at home, search the internet for the nearest public local library, and check-out an e-book or audible book.
Home-Spa & Probiotics
Although you may not be able to go to your hair, skin or nail appointments, you can focus on using natural products that are easily found in your kitchen to create face masks, hair oils, and at-home pedicures. There is a clear link between your gut and the health of your skin. Supplementing your diet with a probiotic is known to help reduce inflammation, resulting in clearer skin. The internal benefits of probiotics are many, and probiotics can also be used in your external skincare regimen to:
- Moisturize and nourish
- Feel and look refreshed
- Gently exfoliate and tone the skin
Probiotic Facial Mask Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1-2 tablespoons of Kashaya (Original or Therapeutic)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or rosehip oil
- 1 teaspoon of honey
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel (if you can find it fresh!)
- 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric (for oily skin)
- 1 teaspoon bentonite clay (for acne-prone skin)
Directions:
Add all ingredients into a bowl and mix well until all ingredients have blended together to make a paste. Apply with clean hands to your face in a small circle. Leave the mask on for 10-30 minutes. Wash off with warm water. Spritz your face with rosewater or witch hazel, and finish with a moisturizer.
Stay safe and stay calm
These tips are meant to provide guidance towards self-care. Right now there is a lot of uncertainty, so it is important to keep yourself motivated and healthy by consistently checking in to see what your body needs to de-stress and maintain optimal health. Take a few moments to journal your feelings and review the suggested self-care practices in this article to see what resonates with you. Take a deep breath, calm the mind, and keep moving forward. You can do this!