I don’t know about you, but I have found myself bombarded with ideas about all the things I could and should be doing at home right now. This makes me feel overwhelmed and worried whether I’m doing enough. We live in a world where many people are obsessed with being busy, and I think this has now extended into the quarantine. People who love constantly moving are now finding new ways of occupying themselves all the time.
I personally think you should be spending these days exactly as you feel you need to. Sometimes, you might be a bit lethargic and need a slower day. Other times, you might get super motivated and organize the whole house. And that’s okay. I encourage you to embrace how you feel, day-to-day. If you’re like me, you might feel a little different each day.
But no matter how things are going, here’s what I’ve been doing every day to stay sane:
Sticking to a routine
A few weeks ago, I posted my social distancing routine. Sticking to a consistent routine gives me the sense that life is normal and still moving. Although it seems like we are at a standstill, time is passing. I journal every night before bed, and I’ve been keeping track of how many days we’ve been in quarantine. Although it can be difficult, I don’t want to lose all sense of time and purpose.
Getting fresh air
I couldn’t get through this time without going outside regularly. H and I have a dog, which has been such a joy. We have a reason to get outside several times per day, and we always take her for one longer walk (away from other people). The fresh spring air always makes me feel refreshed.
Not watching the news
I gave up watching and reading pandemic-related news recently, and it has helped lower my anxiety significantly. I believe being informed is important, but I personally got to the point where I knew everything I needed to stay safe and keep others safe. Learning about another tragedy was just making me spiral. I do still read my daily newsletter from theSkimm, but that’s usually all. By not completely focusing on this virus throughout the day, I’ve felt much better.
Keeping up with loved ones
A quick FaceTime or phone call with a friend always makes me feel good! I almost feel like I’ve been keeping up with people better because of the quarantine. We all want to reach out and connect right now.
Doing a calming activity
And finally, every day I read, color, work on a puzzle, or do all three. These activities distract my mind and take me to another place, mentally. I love getting absorbed in something.
How are you staying sane right now?
I still need to work on getting into a routine! Getting outside has been super helpful for me, too. I’m trying to buy some furniture for our new house right now, so that’s been a great distraction (although sometimes frustrating…ha!).