Five Ways to Deal With Stress and Anxiety After Months of Quarantine Isolation

The COVID-19 pandemic has ravaged every aspect of life, and many report heightened feelings of anxiety, unease, and isolation during this time. Here are a few tips to help relax your body and mind to make the most of this stressful situation.

1.) Healthy Eating

Food may be the last thing you’d want to think about when stressed. Many people adopt negative eating habits when under a lot of pressure; this could mean overeating junk food, or barely eating at all. Both can lead to drowsiness, and a heightened sense of anxiety. Though a treat every now and again is completely okay, your body thrives on proper nutrition. Eating a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and others, can help lead to increased energy throughout the day and result in a better mindset. Treat your body nicely, and reward it with the nutrients it deserves.

2.) Yoga/Meditation

There’s a reason we see so many ads and recommendations to get up and move. Though sometimes it is the last thing on your mind, getting up to exercise may just be the trick you need. If traditional modes of exercise like running, cardio videos, or gym trips are too daunting of a task, yoga and meditation might be a great compromise. These methods provide a low-intensity workout that works to calm the mind and body. Exercising is a great way to fuel endorphins and serotonin, providing needed boosts throughout the day. Even just the simple act of scheduling a five-minute meditation can help guide your mindset for the day.

3.) Try Something New

Engage in something you’ve never had time to do before. With all the extra hours available during the lockdown, it is a great idea to reflect on past projects and goals. Now may just be the moment to explore new interests, or learn a new skill. Many online sites are hosting virtual crafting classes via social media, and craft stores like Michaels have uploaded free how-to videos, which is a great way to pick up a new skill. No task is too big or small, whether it’s learning a new language, finishing spring cleaning, or learning how to crochet, the productivity of a new hobby will help quickly pass the time.

4.) Get Outdoors

Despite our collective responsibility to stay distanced from others, staying indoors for an extended period of time can have adverse effects. Both anxiety and depression are heavily linked to staying inside the house for too long. A smart way to stay safe and healthy is to step outside each day, with a face cover. Simply walking around your neighborhood for about ten minutes is enough to soak up some Vitamin D and get your daily exercise endorphins flowing.

5.) Safely Socialize

Call up friends or family. Zoom, Google Hangouts, Skype, and many other platforms allow for non-contact meetings to chat with those you love. Though it is no replacement for normal life, seeing and socializing with those around you can provide a much-needed distraction and remind you that you’re not alone in this period of isolation. Find online games to play together, or come up with your own.

2020 has been tough on everyone, and even while transitioning into 2021, we are still trudging through a pandemic. Remember, there is light at the end of the tunnel, and hopefully, these five tips will help you to destress and relax for a moment.