Lockdown, solitude, social distancing, quarantine – terms that seem to be straight out of a dystopian novel, have paved down their path into our day-to-day life.
It has almost been a year since multiple countries around the globe experienced their first lockdown after the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. These are strenuous and worrying times for every individual when maintaining safe distance holds its advantages and is the most helpful course of action – yet bears a lion’s share of challenges.
As the COVID-19 restraints most of us within the boundaries of our home, it can be easy to sway down the path of acquiring bad habits. The detrimental effects – both physical and psychological – of lockdown have been well documented by experts. A lesson learned during this lockdown is how all of this has had a grave impact on people’s wellbeing and mental health. Therefore, the awareness raised on this subject is highly needed to comfort the majority to let them know that they are not alone in this whirlwind of overwhelming feelings.
One’s mental health demands support, especially during burdensome times like these. With that in mind, here are some simple ideas and tips to slip into your day to give you more balance and look after your mental health at a time when it is perhaps more important than ever.
- Step out and breathe.
This may sound incredibly generic, but stepping outside can boost your mood and thinking capabilities. Many claims that you can reap nature’s psychological perks immediately just by being outside among trees and greenery. This is because different parts of our brain activate when we are exposed to natural light, which stimulates serotonin production in our body, reducing stress and inducing a state of calmness.
- Sleep tight.
As we get accustomed to stay-at-home requisitions and try to remain in good health during this ongoing lockdown, the significance of a good night’s sleep is flying under the radar. It is of grave importance, however, to focus on sleeping well as it is central to emotional wellness and mental health, helping to beat back stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Exercise.
You have probably heard it before, but it is a proven study that working out makes you feel better inside out by releasing brain chemicals such as endorphins, adrenaline, and dopamine. This practice is particularly important now as it reduces stress, improves sleep quality while boosting the immune system. Exercising with family outdoors, attending a virtual class, and availing online fitness resources are all ways for you to safely engage in physical activity.
- Volunteering.
Volunteering and putting yourself at someone else’s disposal is one of the ways to respond to the pandemic and to bridge disconnection while revamping mental health. This act not only reconnects people and braces those who need it but also grants them a sense of purpose which can help neutralize low mood and lead to happy thoughts – hence improving one’s mental wellbeing.
- Make Journaling a habit.
Journaling is known to be one of the best ways to clear your headspace and connect with your feelings and thoughts. It can significantly reduce stress by being an outlet for the emotional release of negative feelings bubbling inside you and help you gain perspective. It is a free space where you don’t have to worry and avoid common scientific paper writing errors.
- Practice mindful eating.
To be fully present at the moment and being unbiased which consuming meals is known to be mindful eating. This practice allows you to make your snack time more enjoyable and improve eating behaviors. Based on research, mindful eating helps minimize stress and disordered eating behaviors.
- Learn and create.
Finding ways to stay productive and occupied is important. There’s no pressure to write a novel or learn an entirely new language. But do consider doing things you have always wanted to spend your idle time doing. Utilize this extra time off to wallow in the little things. Allow yourself to have a go, and just wallow in little things life is offering.
- Have a routine.
Try and form a proper routine as to how your day will go on. Get out of your pajamas, freshen up and make a concise list of all your goals and targets for the day. This will grant you a sense of productivity and normalcy.
- Avail academic help.
During the outbreak of the covid-19, increased stress and anxiety have been indicated within students, and has been an increasing concern. At times like these, an individual must use all the academic help available at his/her disposal. This is where HR Dissertation Conclusion Sample help services among many others come into play to help students get the best grades.
- Stay in touch with others.
Staying connected with others not only helps you get rid of boredom but is also vital for reducing the sense of isolation. Reaching out to kin and friends on the phone and social media grants an individual a sense of empowerment and community.
In conclusion,
Minor changes in your daily routine, such as those mentioned above, can drastically affect your mental health positively and your mood while keeping you healthy.
