Four months ago I had just returned from an international vacation where I was able to reconnect with family whom I hadn’t seen in over a decade. I was also able to spend quality time with my fiancé while creating new memories of our travel adventures together. And when we got home to Canada we were able to share these stories with our family and friends in person. Today, this experience feels like a lifetime ago.
Over the past few weeks I’ve heard the following words exchanged by almost everyone I know -
anxiety, overwhelm, frustration, irritability, depression, fear, worry, helplessness. All our lives have been turned upside down. From shut down businesses and layoffs to working from dining room tables and home schooling young kids, even a once simple trip to the grocery store is unrecognizable and full of stress.
These sudden and drastic changes to our routines have created an uneasiness and a feeling like we’ve lost control. We’re lacking a schedule and structure which, combined with the required physical distancing protocols, has created a world of social isolation that can be a daily struggle. Our new realities may feel daunting but I’m here to assure you that YOU ARE NOT ALONE!
I’ve also experienced many, if not all, of the emotions listed above. They’re a completely normal response to this chaotic situation, however, it’s important to recognize them for what they are and implement strategies to help feel more emotionally and physically balanced. I’ve focused on a variety of these over the past few weeks. I hope you find them helpful too.
Get Moving! Stay active every day doing whatever physical activity you enjoy the most. Even getting up every 30 minutes to move around and temporarily disconnect from the computer and phone can make a significant difference to our overall wellbeing.
Eat Well Being at home all the time makes frequent snacking and poor food choices a little too easy. Like me, you may have to diligently focus on daily food prep to ensure your family are eating a variety of vegetables, fruits and healthy proteins each day. A quick veggie stir fry is one of my favourite go-tos.
Journal or Meditate. Taking time to focus inward can be immensely helpful in navigating the emotions we’re all struggling with. Transferring those thoughts and emotions on to paper can help to get them out of your body. Meditation and calming the mind is always beneficial, especially in a time when we’re overloaded by information and speculation.
Stay Rested. Making sleep a priority is imperative right now. Practicing sleep hygiene by limiting screen time before bed, ensuring your bedroom is dark and going to bed at a consistent time each night will help you feel more rested and ready for the following day.
Limit Caffeine Intake Limiting or avoiding drinks with caffeine (coffee, tea, pop, energy drinks, etc.) can be helpful in preventing or exacerbating anxiety. Too much caffeine can also create restlessness and cause sleep interruptions.
Stay Connected Call your mom, or a friend or a work colleague or someone you know in self-isolation. Staying connected helps remind us we are still an important part of our community. The one thing I hear most frequently from my family and friends is how much they miss being able to connect in person. This may not be possible right now, but, making a quick call or video chat with your people will help you feel more connected to community
Most importantly be gentle and kind to yourself. These are unprecedented times that affect everyone differently. If you feel you or a loved one may need extra support there are a number of free and low cost resources available to help.
HealthLink BC Available 24/7 providing confidential health information. Call 811 or visit
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