Self-Care During COVID-19

After having a bit of meltdown this morning I was thinking about self-care during COVID-19 because I think it’s safe to say that all of this uncertainty and worry is leading to overwhelm and stress and right about now, if the daily kid schedules/lesson plans I see circulating are any indication, you’re probably planning everything for everyone else. Here are 9 quick recommendations for self-care during COVID-19. I also shot a video version in case you would like to see/hear a human other than your family! I’m sending big love to you all.

1. Feel your feelings

Everything is uncertain and stressful right now and I think it’s important to feel your feelings. Just this morning I said to my family, “I am super irritated and I have no idea why. It’s me, not you. SORRY GUYS.” Saying this out loud helped remove fodder for misunderstandings.

2. Prioritize sleep

I have actually been getting my usual amount of sleep but have found myself completely exhausted, which I imagine is because it’s just exhausting to be on high alert mode constantly. So if you’re great at day napping, go for it. If not, go to bed earlier.

3. Take a shower

Seriously, it makes a huge difference. You can climb back into your jammies or sweats, but getting a shower really helps.

4. Go outside

I don’t want to sound doom and gloom but I have been wondering about when/if we’ll be restricted in going outside. Right now, we’re not restricted so GET OUT THERE. Sun and fresh air will help.

5. Find ways to move indoors

If the weather is bad or you just don’t want to go out, it’s good to have options indoors. I love Yoga with Adriene (and just did a yoga practice this morning with Violet).

6. Find ways to laugh

Seriously, we need to laugh. Find a fun podcast to listen to, send ridiculous GIFs to friends, or one of my favorite things is listening to comedians on Spotify.

7. Lean in to your happy things

Do you love coffee? Chocolate? Reading? Something else? LEAN THE THE EFF IN to your happy things. For me it’s reading. Praise be for libraries; I picked up a giant library haul before mine closed.

8. Connect with loved ones

This is a tough and unusual time and especially if you are an extrovert you might be struggling. Text or Skype/Facetime with loved ones if that is what fills your tank.

9. Get your kids to do chores

I will never stop beating this drum. Seriously, getting your kids to do chores is self-care because when your family shares in household responsibility you won’t be resentful about doing everything yourself. I just posted yesterday about 20 life skills kids can master while they’re stuck indoors. LEAN INTO IT.