When solitude stops being a choice
…aka new daily struggles in the light of global pandemic. Like not losing your mind a couple times a day due to significant world events beyond your circle of influence.
So far, my ongoing efforts have been mostly directed on mastering life in the whirl of "business as usual", however business as usual has now been put on hold until further notice and life presented me with new challenges to adapt to. Here are some of my thoughts I would like to share how I stay sane and well in these uncertain times.
Keeping a healthy routine. Sticking to my morning rituals and daily habits, even in the new working environment, helped me to adapt to the changed situation more easily. So if you work from home (and especially if you are not used to such a setup), try to maintain a certain schedule: get up at the same time every day, do your morning routine, dress for work and sit at your designated working area. Make sure you also plan for breaks and socializing - just like the human you are - and do not forget to "go back home" when the workday is over.
Focusing on prevention and strengthening my health. Eating well and mindfully, trying to work my body and rest my mind, getting sufficient sleep (and I have a lot of room for improvement on this one), taking my vitamins and having cold showers. Daily.
Moving my body. I like getting some fresh air a couple times a day, even if just through an open window. I try to do a short workout, run, or at least a walk every day. Working your body helps you to stay healthy and well, both physically and mentally. More on that topic coming soon.
Staying connected with my tribe. I have to admit that at times I might not be the most social animal of all, but now more than ever, I very consciously try to reach out and stay in touch and connected with people I care about. Just to let people know that I think of them, and I am fairly confident nobody minds that these days. The point is - don't isolate yourself more than is necessary.
"Meeting with myself" and doing things for me. I started to make a list of all the things I usually don't have time for. Reading a book, studying up on topics that interest me, learning a new skill, getting back to an old hobby, or picking up a new one. Reaching out to an old friend. Putting together an action plan on how to reach my life goals. Decluttering my closet and Marie-Kondo-ing the crap out of my home and life. If I, at any point in the day, feel like I don't know what to do with myself or time on my hands, it is the easiest thing in the world to look at the list and pick one thing I feel like the most. Food for thought: Which ones from your list can you get into while being home? Which of those will make you feel more at ease, or just happier? And no need to overthink it - even 1% changes or investing 10 minutes a day is still worth it and bringing you closer to your goals.
Getting to know myself better. I try to use the silence to my advantage: to observe how I feel, note what I like, and what makes me smile, notice what triggers me. Figure out what morning routine gives me the best start into the day. Find out what makes me tense and what helps me relax. Be kind to myself and take good care of me. Basically learning to treat myself as I would treat my best friend.
These are just a few things that are immensely helping me to get through this time day by day. Don't get me wrong, I still get worried and overwhelmed by all that is happening at times. But it is the small things and going back to basics that help me re-center and tackle each new day head-on. I hope this could offer some inspiration, and as I always can use some too - I will be more than happy to read about your strategies and tips in the comments!
