The photo above is me during a happy moment. I was in Miami enjoying South Beach action and perfect weather, without any major worries.
I had no idea that in a little over a year later, we would have a global pandemic in our midst.
We are living in some chaotic times, and it is becoming increasingly stressful and taxing on most of us. No matter how strong you are, when bad things happen, we can all fall victim to self-doubt, anxiety, and hopelessness.
You are not alone.
As a working mom advocate and a self-care enthusiast, I wanted to share with you ways that you can administer self-care in times of crisis to help restore some peace in your life, while focusing on yourself and your needs.
Pause
Before you take in another headline or tweet or status update about Coronavirus and the havoc it has caused the world, stop.
Breathe.
Pause.
We are the sum of our thoughts, and what we digest via content can have a type pf control over us. When you pause and take a mental break and just BE, you are allowing yourself to clarify and recalibrate. Cleanse those thoughts. Retool your mind, and focus it on something positive.
Give yourself a pause and make it an active part of your day. While it is understandable that you want to be aware of breaking news around you, you don’t have to be tuned in every minute. Step back and refocus yourself and pause. This can be one of the best things that you can do for your mental and emotional being during this time.
Pour
When your cup starts to fill, you have to pour some out or it will spill over. You need an outlet, and something to keep your mind busy, but in a healthy and pleasant way. This is where hobbies come in. Spend time daily doing something that you enjoy doing.
For me, I read and listen to audiobooks. On any given day, I am reading two books and listening to at least one audiobook. It gives me an escape and outlet in which to channel my thoughts and energy, even if it’s only temporary. Pour into activities that calm you and bring you joy.
People
Stay close to your people. The ones that feel like sunshine and can make you smile just by thinking of them. Make sure to stay in touch virtually by tapping into Google Hangouts, Skype, FaceTime—even if it’s just for a few minutes a day.
Therapy
There is nothing shameful about speaking to a therapist and sharing how you feel. There are therapists that you can see virtually online, allowing you the flexibility to make your mental health a priority,
Journal
Grab a notebook and let it be your place to vent and get your frustrations out. Spend time in a quiet place if you can (moms of littles, you can use the kids’ bedtime as a journaling period), and allow it to let you express yourself.
Unfollow
Unfollow anyone on your social feeds who make you feel negative energy. This includes accounts from the news media and sources that give you anxiety or make you feel poorly. You deserve to protect your peace.
Rest
Try to get enough sleep and activate rest periods throughout the day if you can. The current climate can suck the life out of you, so if you aren’t getting enough rest, it can lower your immunity and cause other issues. Naps aren’t just for preschoolers—allow them to help you replenish.
We will get through this, despite the gloom and doom that surroundings us. Self-care in times of crisis isn’t an amenity, it is a non-negotiable. Take care of yourself and give yourself grace.
This too shall pass.
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