In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic we are faced with a new practice; social distancing. For safety precautions, health organizations are recommending that people maintain social distance. While this might sound like an easy thing to do, it is difficult to stay away from people. Many employees are working from home and social gatherings are highly discouraged. Given these changes, it can be difficult to remain sane. Here are a few ways to ensure that you remain safe during social distancing.
- Create and maintain a routine
Just like the normal routine one has if they work from an office, social distancing should not break that routine. Have a plan that has designated waking up hours, work hours and other daily activities. That routine will help you stay sane especially if the situation takes longer to resolve. A routine will also help you remain productive and avoid engaging in harmful habits like binge sleeping, eating or consuming alcohol. A routine prevents you from lazing around all day. Productivity: Working From Home: 10 Ways To Make It Work
- Maintain contact with other people
Social distancing is different from social isolation. Make sure that you still talk to people frequently. Generally, the business environment is slowed down so you have more time to connect with people. Call or text family, loved ones and friends to check on them and to catch up. While meeting up with them is discouraged, you can always stay connected through phone calls and social media sites. It helps to talk to someone in times of fear and uncertainty.
- Take the time to reflect
Take advantage of this time away from the office to reflect on your personal health, spirituality and all aspects of life in general. This is a good time to embark on your journey of self-care. The pressure at work was probably already catching on so you have time to breathe a little bit while still working from home. Self Care: 5 Fun Ways To Spend Your Me Time
- Use technology to your advantage
Technology is your friend during these trying times. Use applications like Zoom, Skype and Slack to communicate with your colleagues and clients to ensure that you are still meeting your deadlines and targets at work. Further, if you attend sobriety meetings you can still have them virtually.
With more free time on your hands, you can watch that movie or series that you have been meaning to watch for the longest time. Listen to some music too to kill the boredom. Uses Of Music For Mental Health
- Make time to experience nature
Social distancing can result in anxiety and panic. It’s advisable to take a walk and enjoy nature. You can also combine this with a workout like jogging or running for a couple of kilometres. Just avoid places with many people and touching public surfaces.
- Engage in activities that keep you active
Inactivity can drive you insane so one needs to remain active. Activities such as meditating, solving puzzles, yoga workouts in your home, painting, board games, cooking and reading are good ways to keep your body and mind active. Use the time to channel your inner creativity and explore new things.
Social distancing can affect one’s mental health so we need to be proactive in ensuring that we are feeling ok mentally. The spread of the virus is already causing fear in people and resulting in stress. Remaining active is a good way to ensure that social life is not extremely disrupted. 5 Easy Practices To Boost Your Mental Health
