Manage the Stress
We ALL feel it.
Everything has been turned upside down because of COVID-19 which means some of us are working overtime, some are working from home while helping a house full of kids to do their schooling online, and some are furloughed, or have lost their jobs or businesses all together. It’s STRESS. It’s dragging us to change and cope in ways that are often painful and lead to sleepless nights.
And there are some who are happy at home, feet up, binge watching Netflix and eating ALL the food. Maybe they’re the ones that took all the toilet paper, too, lol!
Wherever you fall on the spectrum of this pandemic experience, you’re no doubt feeling differently and having to dig deep to stay on top of your emotions and health as we all wait for what is next.
Here are 6 quick tips to level out your emotions and your physical response to the stresses you’re feeling:
Stick to a routine. It doesn’t mean you have to stick to early, rushed mornings, and hectic schedules. It DOES mean you should create consistency that you choose that gives you something to look forward to live with every day. I slacked off last week and began sleeping later, because what’s the rush, right?! I had all the free hours of the day I could do all the things…or so I thought. The days seemed more difficult, my energy was low and sporadic, and I didn’t have as much patience with my kids. This week, I am back to getting up at 6am…not because I have to, but because I know my days go and feel better when I have a bit of time to myself to exercise and journal in a quiet house before the kids are up.
Write down 3 things you are thankful for. You’ve likely heard of the benefits of keeping a gratitude journal and chances are that you’ve made the effort to keep one at certain points in your life. The reality is that it truly sets the tone of your heart and mind for the day. Noticing specific things, big and small, that you appreciate in your life and in the world around you makes a difference for your outlook and mental health. If you ever find yourself stuck, not able to think of one single thing that is good or has brought you joy, flip back in your journal a few pages to see what you wrote down on other days. You will have peace come to your mind and a feeling of appreciation return. Try it! I promise it makes a difference!
Focus on your food quality. Proteins, vegetables and complex carbohydrates along with plenty of water are KEY. They are essential to feeling your best through the best of times and the hard times. I remember an object lesson from my childhood where the teacher was trying to show us the importance of doing the big things first and then everything else would fall into place. She had a large glass jar to fill with sand, stones, bigger rocks and water and told us all of this would fit in the container. At first she started with the water, then some big rocks and stones, then the sand…it was overflowing before even coming close to holding all that needed to go inside! We emptied out the container to try a new strategy starting with the biggest rocks first, then the stones, then the sand and finally the water. You’ve guess where this is going by now—everything fit without anything spilling over. Think of your food the same way. Fit in the most important nutrients and quantities first. Fuel your body with the right nutrition FIRST to feel well, sleep better, and lessen the physical and mental effects of stress.
Move your body daily. This doesn’t mean you have to go out and run marathon distances or lift heavy. It does mean that you deliberately move your body in a way that is dynamic and strengthening. Science tells us all the benefits from boosting your mood to long-term health that comes from exercise. Make it one of your biggest priorities during this time.
Balance your negative and positive media consumption. The news is difficult to see and read right now and whether or not you realize it, all the sad and difficult information is affecting you subconsciously, if it isn’t already outwardly. Take in the news so you can stay informed and aware, but limit it to reliable sources and to just once a day. If you spend 20 minutes reading the headlines and articles, make sure you spend time taking in media that is positive and uplifting.
Keep caring for your skin! I cannot emphasize enough just how much simple acts of self care can make a difference for your mental well being. If you weren’t washing your face and neck before, now is such a good time to start. You’ll see some immediate benefits and reap the rewards long term as well. If you’re already diligent with your skin, this is a great time to add in a more intensive treatment and makes some upgrades to your routine. This is where my expertise lies and I would love to help you find your ideal skin routine during this time. Just click the SKIN QUIZ here or in the menu for a personalized product recommendation based on your skin concerns, skin type and environment. It even takes into account what your routine currently looks like.
Stick to a routine, practice and record your gratitude, focus on food quality, move your body daily, balance media consumption, and keep caring for your skin. Watch for signs that your efforts are working as you sleep better, feel better and move better through life right now.
Stay well friends!
XO
Dayna
