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If you’re feeling frustrated, disconnected and apprehensive about the future, you’re not alone. But every day doesn’t have to feel futile. Here are practical ways to boost your energy and adjust your thinking.
1. Reframe your thinking
Instead of focusing on everything you’ve lost during this time, try to concentrate on opportunities instead. For example, instead of thinking you can’t go out as often as you used to, think of it as having more time for hobbies or studying. Challenge your negative thoughts by giving them a positive spin. Write down what you’re anxious about and then question whether you are being realistic. Take it a step further by listing what you’re grateful for.
2. Keep to a healthy routine
A well-rested, healthy mind and body makes for a calmer you. Take care of your body by doing 30 minutes of moderate activity per day and try to get fresh air by taking daily walks. Eat a well-balanced diet that includes whole fruit, vegetables, lean meat and plenty of water. Stay mentally fit by getting quality sleep, taking regular breaks from the news and limiting screen time. Meditate, practise deep breathing or spend time in spiritual reflection to calm yourself for at least 20 minutes per day.
3. Axe the loneliness
While you can no longer drop by a friend’s house or have spontaneous coffee dates, you can still feel connected to your loved ones. Just like you’d schedule outings with them, set up FaceTime dates where you can have a meal or coffee ‘together’. You could even have a virtual movie or game night and do socially distanced activities such as ‘going for a walk’. Text and call regularly and speak about things unrelated to the pandemic, if possible.
4. Prioritise yourself
The ongoing pandemic can sometimes take a toll on your mental wellbeing, leaving you feeling more exhausted than ever. Schedule regular downtime where you do something for yourself. Create a timetable with activities to give yourself something to look forward to. This could be taking a warm bath, catching up on reading, sipping your favourite tea outside, learning something new or even watching your favourite movie.
5. Find pockets of joy
It might feel like there’s nothing to celebrate right now, but getting through every day during this uncertain time is in itself an achievement. Whether you successfully finished all your work tasks, finally cooked a recipe you’ve been wanting to try or found a funny video online, relish it. These small moments of joy add up, making it easier to feel positive and grateful.
For more mental health-related advice, read these helpful articles:
- How to strengthen your mental resilience during a crisis
- 3 ways to manage stress and anxiety while social distancing
The information is shared on condition that readers will make their own determination, including seeking advice from a professional. E&OE.
References:
- Metzger, M. (n.d.). Taking Care of Your Emotional Wellbeing During a Pandemic. [online] University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. Available at: https://med.unr.edu/aging/news-information-resources/emotional-wellbeing-during-a-pandemic [Accessed 16 February 2021]
- Cornain, E. (2020). The New Normal: How Life Has Changed Due to COVID-19 (and Tips to Help You Cope). [online] The Skill Collective. Available at: https://theskillcollective.com/blog/coronavirus-new-normal [Accessed 16 February 2021]
- AdventHealth. (2020). 10 Activities to Ease Your Mind During the Coronavirus Pandemic. [online] Available at: https://www.adventhealth.com/coronavirus-resource-hub/blog/10-activities-ease-your-mind-during-coronavirus-pandemic [Accessed 16 February 2021]