It’s been over a month since social distancing has been required for most states and it has not been easy. For most of us women, this is very challenging because God created as us social beings and being isolated from friends, family, and co-workers is not easy. Whether you live by yourself, or with children, a spouse, family or friends, being forced to stay away from others is a challenge. This new normal is challenging, so we must remain strong and rediscover ways to not lose ourselves during this strange time.
Here are 5 tips to stay mentally healthy while social distancing:
1. Pay attention to your diet!
Our diets play a significant role on how we feel mentally and the saying “you are what you eat” is real. Brains function based on the nutrients we feed our bodies and if we aren’t consistently eating healthy food, more than likely we won’t mentally feel our best. Most of us have been spending more time in the kitchen since the quarantine started which means more time to be unconsciously snacking, which may also lead to weight gain.
Be aware of what you are eating during social distancing. There’s a good chance that you have more time to cook, which means you have the potential to eat healthier. The next time you go grocery shopping, focus on purchasing fresh fruits, veggies and meat. Some of the best things we can eat that can help our brain and our bodies healthy and well-functioning are fatty fish, whole grains, protein, leafy greens, and berries. Raw or roasted nuts are a great snack that can help improve your mood while not breaking the scale.
2. Manage time on your devices
Electronics seem to get a lot of our attention when we feel like we have nothing to do or when we are stressed. While it is very important to stay connected to others during this time, it’s also important to make sure have not over consuming screen time. A healthy way to do this is to set a screen limit on your phone, and most smart devices allow us to individually manage the time we spend on each app.
Another great thing about smart devices is they can give us a weekly screen time report so we can adjust our habits. For example, if you have been on Instagram for 3 hours a day, try and limit it to 2 and a half hours a day and fill that time with something you enjoy. Maybe read that book, learn a new language since many businesses are giving out free e-learning programs, or simply take the time to work on your craft.
3. Exercise
Most gyms are closed, and if you are used to going to the gym, it can be hard not having that designated time and place to workout but that doesn’t mean all hope is lost. Luckily many gyms are offering free streaming workout videos at designated times to help us remain active until we are able to go back. YouTube is also an option to find other workout videos. Purchasing equipment online is also an option if you are used to weights and machines. The focus isn’t to be able to do exactly what we were doing before, but to accommodate and adjust to make it work where we are.
If virtual work outs aren’t your thing, challenge yourself to take brisk walks outside to get some physically activity. If you have children, this is a great way to get them out of the house and get rid of some cabin fever. Maybe search some local trails and discover the beautiful earth God created just for YOU. After being crammed up in the house for so long, being active and outside in the sun is a great way to release those endorphins.
4. Stay connected to God
Even when we aren’t busy, staying connected to God can be a challenge. Sometimes we have so many things going on in our heads and are doing so many things, that we neglect spending time with God. He will be there for us no matter what, but we must do our part by staying in prayer and reading the word to feel that sense of connectedness.
Many people feel that God is trying to get our attention with this epidemic and social distancing is a way for us to slow down and reconnect with him. Recharge your faith by reading a passage daily, listening to messages online and praying throughout the day. Follow inspirational pages on social media so that you are bombarded with positivity and the truth of God’s word.
5. Create a quarantine routine
We all had a routinepre-COVID-19, but all structure has been lost for most during the quarantine. Without a doubt, we should be taking advantage of being home more, but that doesn’t mean neglect the fact we still need structure. Without it, it can be hard for us to stay motivated and work towards our goals. The goal is not to create a routine that is stressful or overbearing, but to help us feel some sort of normalcy in our lives for the time being. Make sure your routine includes eating healthy meals, exercising, leisure time, and the things you enjoy.
Here are 6 encouraging Bible verses to meditate on while we navigate through this time:
- Matthew 6:34 – Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
- Psalm 55:22 – Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.
- Psalm 9:9-10 – The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.
- Psalm 34:10 –Those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.
- 1 Chronicles 16:11 – Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually!
- 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
We will come out of this! Be encouraged in the midst of this crisis and do your best every day. Staying mentally healthy often means focusing on the positive, finding the silver lining, and making lemons out of lemonade.
Awesome information thanks for sharing!