COVID-19: How to Keep Well During Social Distancing?
We know this time is filled with a lot of anxiety and this sense of uncertainty can make many of us feel very uneasy. Trust me, you are not alone.
As a doctor working for the NHS, going into work everyday, things are changing daily and we basically prepare for the worst but still take each day as it comes – because having too many expectations and plans whilst things are changing so much isn’t the best strategy.
We’ve put together 5 of our best top tips will calm your mind and body during this time.
1. Try to keep some sort of routine – whether that be waking up and doing some of the subject work set by your school, or doing a yoga or fitness routine every morning/night.
Routines can help to add a sense of direction to the day, especially as you may be having a lot of these days “off”
It’s okay to have the odd days with no routine and don’t feel bad about that
2. Keep to up-to-date with the News, but limit how much time you spend reading about it or watching it on social media.
It is important to be vigilant and comply with government
In our house, we have 10-20 minute update a day and then the rest of the time is no longer spent talking and over-analysing about it, instead it’s watching a film or programme together and continue to bond with the people we live with
3. Take up a new skill or continue with one you were developing
Maybe you want to read that book you’ve just not got a round to, or you want to brush up on your French or music.
This could be that time to do something for yourself.
4. At the start and end of your day try to close your eyes and try this breathing exercise:
Breathe in for 4 seconds
Breathe out for more than 4 seconds
This will calm your mind, connect you back to yourself away from everything that is going on and this very simple meditation practise will give you a sense of clarity
5. Try to incorporate some physical activity into your day
Whether that is skipping outside in your garden, a quick run around the block or a home fitness workout, maintaining some physical activity daily will maintain your overall wellbeing… and keep you sane! Try it out with your friends by videocalling them!
There might be a lot more you are doing and if there are any particular that you feel is really helping you – comment below so that we can all make use of them!
Most importantly look after yourself: physically, spiritually and mentally – it’s okay if some days you don’t achieve all that you wanted to.
Yes there is a lot time off to do things but there’s no need to expect so much from yourself – maybe this is a time for self-love and recuperation and that in itself is an essential achievement.
Gain perspective on the situation and look after yourself. If you have any questions, please feel free to comment below as always email us at hello@step2med.co.uk
Take care,
Dr Pooja Devani
