These are just some things I've been doing during the COVID-19 pandemic!
Wake up around the same time everyday.
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I wake up between 7:00 am and 8:30 am every day, much later than my usual 5:45 am wake-up time. I'm a morning person so I want to capitalize on my energy and make sure I'm productive when I feel the most awake. I set an alarm, but I don't feel bad about pressing snooze or turning it off altogether.
Make your bed.
Taylor Mead
If you're not already making your bed, you're missing out BIG TIME. It literally takes me less than a minute, but my room feels ten times cleaner and fresher. It's a great start to the day and I cannot recommend this enough. It seems so simple and derivative, but it does wonders to set me up for a positive day ahead.
Have a morning ritual
Michael Nocella
If you have something you do every morning, it can add a bit of continuity in your routine. For me, I practice yoga in the morning. Getting up and out of bed, getting myself ready to practice, and actually practicing are constants in my routine. Yoga helps relieve some of my anxiety surrounding the pandemic and puts me in the right headspace to accomplish my goals for the day. Yoga with Adriene is my favorite. For you, it can be making your coffee, taking your dog on a walk, or going for a run. The point is to do something every day at around the same time every day.
Get ready...like actually ready
GiphyGetting ready is probably my #1 tip for feeling more human. In the mornings, I shower and actually put on clothes. Granted, my outfit is usually linen pants, a cotton shirt and socks. It's comfortable and that's key. I for one have not worn jeans for a month, but you do you. I also put on jewelry because that makes me feel good. If makeup makes you feel good, you should apply it. Do what makes you feel good!
Eat Meals, Not Snacks
Green Eggs Cafe InstagramThe quarantine 15 is such a reality for me. All these packets of ramen, the loaves of bread, all the pasta and sauce. Of course, give yourself grace and eat whatever the fuck you want, but my mental and physical health are so much better when I eat three meals a day and maybe a snack. I emotionally eat and it's a very emotional time, so I really try to limit my snacks for my own health.
Break up the day into chunks
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Within each "chunk", I'm doing a different thing. The early morning is for myself, where I practice self-care. I go to class in the late morning and early afternoon. I research, plan and knock things off my to-do list in the bulk of the afternoon. I sign off work whenever I can't take it anymore, usually between 5pm and 7pm. I use the time after that to watch movies, hang out with my family, play board games, and talk to me friends. All about that balance!
Keep your space clean and positive
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Good hygiene is always really important. I dust, disinfect, and declutter my space regularly. I also like to bring positive energy into my space so I diffuse essential oils and burn incense.
Make realistic to-do's
GiphyI put little things on my to-do list, like shower or get ready because it feels good to accomplish all these things. We're in a time now where there is literally less stuff to do. So, pat yourself on the back for the little things.
Work on passion projects
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I do the things that I don't make time for otherwise. I've cooked and baked an unhealthy amount, but procrasti-baking is real! Do what you love!
Go outside (responsibly)
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Walk around your neighborhood! Take pictures of cool things you've never noticed before. Just make sure to stay away from people and practice social distancing.
Pray or meditate
I've had a lot of time to examine my faith over the last few weeks and I've leaned on God more and asked for His help and intercession. Even if you have faith, no faith, or are questioning faith, examining your principles and your role in the world can be therapeutic. Find things to lean on and things that give you strength. Hold onto them.