Self-Care Practices to Get Through the Coronavirus

I'm gonna be honest…I haven't left my house in five days. And, given the circumstances, I'm not sure if that’s a good or bad thing!  I'm really taking this social distancing thing seriously. Or maybe it's just the introvert/homebody in me taking over!  But whatever your personality or preference for leaving the house, the fact is that we are gonna be spending a lot more time at home than we're used to. 

The impact of COVID-19 has been different for everyone, but I think we can agree that it’s been very disruptive to say the least. No one likes feeling restricted.  And having events cancelled, travel being restricted, and restaurants and stores closing...sucks!  Our normal daily lives have been interrupted and it’s okay to acknowledge feelings of disappointment and frustration.  

But with all this extra time at home, there is a silver lining.  Whether you're working from home indefinitely or your social calendar has been completely erased, now is the perfect time to prioritize self-care.  And right about now, with all the additional stress, anxiety, and uncertainty, we need as much self-care as we can possibly get. 

Now, certain self-care practices will be harder to do, like those that involve going out and being around other people. But there are many things you can do from the comfort of your home that will not only help you stay sane and avoid cabin fever but will also keep you grounded and calm during these tumultuous times. 

Keep reading for 8 ways to practice self-care while quarantined at home.

1. Disconnect

Things are changing rapidly, and it is important to stay informed. But how much information is too much?  Everyone is talking about the Coronavirus and the sensationalized headlines will put you on edge. The heightened stress will keep your body in fight-or-flight mode which can weaken your immune system. That is the last thing you need right now!

Limiting your news and social media consumption is a simple way to protect your mental health.  Pick a few trusted news sources to keep you current on the latest developments. Reduce your screen time, especially before bed, to allow your body and mind to fully relax. 

2. Prioritize sleep

Sacrificing sleep has sadly become the norm.  According to the CDC, one third of Americans are not getting enough sleep (7-9 hours). And many more are not getting the deep, restful sleep that we really need. This is alarming because poor sleep (quantity and quality) have been shown to weaken the immune system, impair learning and memory, contribute to mood and mental disorders and even lead to chronic illness in the long term.

Not trying to scare you! But I do want to encourage you to make sleep and rest a priority, especially during this time of increased mental and emotional strain. Go to sleep early. Take breaks and rest whenever possible. Go easy on yourself and your body will thank you. 

Pro tip: put your phone away before bed.  Looking at your phone screen actually revs your brain up when it should be slowing down, negatively affecting sleep quality. Instead, create a bedtime ritual that allows your brain to wind down—relax in warm bath, read something positive, listen to calming music, try aromatherapy.

3. Keep some structure

It’s very important to listen to our bodies and provide what it needs. Sometimes that is flexibility and spontaneity.  Maybe that’s eating some good old comfort food or sleeping in a bit later usual.  But one thing that can help you to maintain a sense of balance in all the chaos is adding some structure to your day, especially if you’re relegated to working from home.  There’s no need to plan out your schedule to hour by hour, but a little structure can you help clear your head and reduce stress.

One simple way to do this is to incorporate a morning and/or evening routine into your day.  If you already have one, keep it up! It’s a great practice for bringing intention, productivity, peace, and self-care to your day.  If you don’t have a morning or evening routine, now is the perfect time to create one!

Here are a few ideas for activities to include in your morning and evening routine:

• Meditation
• Prayer
• Reading
• Oil pulling
• Affirmations
• Skincare
• Yoga/stretching
• Exercise
• Gratitude practice
• Journaling

4. Do that thing you never have time for

We all have that thing that we've been wanting to do for forever, but just haven't had the time.  NOW is that time!  Revisit an old hobby, learn a new skill, finish a project, start a side hustle.  Time is finally on your side. Do something that brings you joy or challenges you to step out of your comfort zone. For the longest time I’ve wanted to learn how to do fancy hand lettering and calligraphy.  I’m finally getting the chance to take my new brush pens for a spin.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Take an online course
• Learn a new language or brush up on one you already know
• Make a vision board (doesn't have to be for New Years)
• Do something artsy (painting, crafts, knitting, photography etc.)
• Create a blog or Youtube channel
• Write a book
• Start a bullet journal
• Read for fun
• Play video games
• Get organized

The possibilities are endless!

5. Cook delicious food

I'm sure you’ve stocked up on lots of food staples and with limited take-out options, it's a great time to put your culinary skills to the test.  Whip up your favorite dishes or experiment with new ones. Pinterest is your best friend when it comes to discovering delicious recipes to try.  Cooking is very meditative and relaxing.  It allows you to nourish your body and spirit because, let’s be honest, eating good food can be a soul-filling experience like no other.  

Don’t forget to incorporate foods that are as nutrient dense as possible (based on what is available to you).  Keeping your nutrition up will go a long way toward keeping you healthy.

6. Stay active

The gyms are closed (or at least they should be), but that doesn't mean you have to be inactive. Get your endorphins flowing by working out at home. Exercise is one of the best mood-boosters. And there are plenty of sources for workout inspiration.  Youtube has tons of free workout videos—strength training, cardio, dance, yoga (check out my favorite channels).

It's also a good time to get out in nature and go for a walk or run.  You can continue to practice social distancing while getting a dose of sunshine and vitamin D.

7. Beautify your home

Did you know that your home could be a stress management tool? A messy, cluttered, or disorganized space can add to the stress and anxiety you may already be feeling.  Spend some time making your living space one that promotes relaxation and displays your unique taste and personality.  Make your space a refuge from outside stressors and a place that brings you comfort and peace.

Do some remodeling or redecorating. Add some feng shui touches to invite in more positive energy. KonMari your home by downsizing and organizing.  Even cleaning up the kitchen or tackling that pile of laundry can improve your physical and mental space tremendously.  It feels so good to be in an environment that you love and enjoy, am I right?

8. Keep in touch

Even though we are #socialdistancing, that doesn't mean that we have to live in isolation.  Get creative with your communication—people are hosting virtual dance parties and meditation sessions. I just took a live online African dance class with 100 other people. It was awesome! Tap into online communities.  Zoom, Google Hangouts, FaceTime, Facebook and Instagram Live are useful tools virtual connection.

And reach out to those you care about.  Call up the people you’ve been meaning to catch up with but haven’t had the time.  Even though we can't be physically together, community is still so important as we navigate our next steps.  Even if they aren't physically sick, many of us are going through a lot right now.  You may be as well. It's important to have people to talk to and, at times, just vent to during this stressful time.

There's a lot we don’t know about the Coronavirus and how our communities will be affected.  So much is out of our control and that's a hard pill to swallow. But what we can control is how we respond. And what we can do is take this time to go inward and prioritize our well-being and self-care.  

Wishing everyone safety and peace of mind. We will get through this together!

6 Wellness Podcasts for a Happier, Healthier Life

I'm a big podcastfan and I listen to them A LOT! Whether I'm doing my hair, driving to work,cooking, working out...whatever the activity, you'll probably hear a podcastplaying in the background.

If you haven'tentered the podcast world yet, it's time you take the plunge!  Podcasts are entertaining and informative,and the best part is you can listen on the go. It's a fun and easy way to learn about almost any topic you can thinkof. 

Now that werejumping into the new year, my podcast focus has shifted to the health andwellness arena. If you're anything like me you've been thinking about how to bethe best version of yourself and strive for health and happiness this year.

Well look nofurther! Today I'm sharing some of my favorite wellness-related podcasts thatwill motivate you as you start or continuing on your wellness journey.

I love that these podcasts approach wellness from many different perspectives--focusing on mind, body and spirit.  I think each of these aspects of health are super important. For long term well-being we really need a balance of all three.  Each of these podcasts has something unique to offer to the wellness space and I really enjoy listening. I know you will too!

1. Oprah's Super Soul Conversations

Inmy mind Oprah can do no wrong (does that make me biased?!).  And her podcast is outstanding for thoselooking to grow and develop inside and out. This is my go-to podcast when I want a mindset shift.  Oprah's deeply personal and meaningfulconversations always leave me feeling uplifted and inspired.  Her guests are fascinating and includebest-selling authors, spiritual luminaries, health and wellness experts andeven celebrities.  They so eloquentlyshare their stories, recapping their biggest life lessons.  The show aims to provide answers to life'sbiggest questions and bring you closer to your best self.  You'll learn about self-discovery,spirituality, finding your purpose and so much more. 

2. Mind Body Green Podcast

I randomly came across this podcast when I was going through a really bad bout of eczema and was looking for natural, non-conventional methods of healing.  This podcast speaks on that very subject. Host, Jason Wachob, is changing the conversation about health and advocates for a more holistic approach to wellness. One that goes beyond just the physical body.  Jason's journey began when, with the help of functional medicine and yoga, he was able to naturally heal from a serious back injury. One that, under normal circumstances, would require surgery.  Ever since then he's been on a quest to show transformative power of wellness.  The show is casual and informative and the guests are some of biggest names in the wellness industry.  Jason is real and honest and not afraid to look at the wellness industry through a critical lens.  I've learned so many unexpected things from this podcast like how kale might actually be bad for your health and the life-changing power of mushrooms.  This show is packed with information and Jason does a great job of keeping things interesting week after week.

3. The Wellness Mama Podcast

Don'tlet the name fool you, this podcast is not just for mamas!  It's for anyone looking to craft a healthierlifestyle.  I've been following theWellness Mama blog for some time now, since I've been on my own wellnessjourney and looking toward natural methods of healing.  Her posts are always extremely thorough andwell-researched, yet easy to digest and apply. She's someone that I've reallycome to trust when it comes to health and wellness. I've recently startedlistening to her podcast and it's become a new favorite. On the podcast, Katiediscusses topics like holistic health, real food, fitness, and natural livingwith a little bit of motherhood and family life sprinkled in.  Katie is extremely knowledgeable and I loveher personality. Definitely give this podcast a try for actionable tips forliving your healthiest life.

4. Food Heaven Podcast

Hostedby Registered Dietitians and BFFs Wendy and Jess, who vow to make the world ahealthier place one meal at a time.  Ifyou're looking for a one stop shop for all things food, health and nutritionthis is it!  Wendy and Jess, really knowtheir stuff.  I love hearing their takeon popular wellness topics and their conversations with different leaders inthe wellness community.  They give realtips for making sustainable changes to improve health.  Things that you'll actually be able to applyand maintain.  Their episodes aren'tsuper long. They range from about 20 to 45 minutes, giving you quality contentwithout all the fluff. 

5. Good Life Project

GoodLife Project is way more than just a podcast, it's a movement. Founded byJonathan Fields, he and his team are on a mission to help us live a moremeaningful, connected and vital life.  Onthe podcast, Johnathon gives us a peak into the lives of some of the mostaccomplished teachers, creators and leaders. He walks us through their journey and how they've achieved meaning,connection, and purpose in their lives. It really makes you rethink your own definition of "the goodlife."  There's something so calmingand gentle about Jonathan's voice, and you can feel his authenticity andpassion in every episode.  This is anamazingly inspirational podcast that I highly recommend. Shout out to my mom,who introduced me to this show!

6. Mind Body Musings

Irecently started listening to Mind Body Musings and I'm obsessed!  It's rare that you listen to a podcast andfeel completely understood.  If you'reinterested in topics like self-love, mindset, personal growth, spirituality,and how these all relate to health and wellness, then this is the podcast foryou!  Author, life coach and formerfitness model, Maddy Moon shares her insight on aligning mind, body andspirit.  Maddy's kind of like a wise,older sister, encouraging and pushing you to reach your full potential andletting you know that everything is gonna be just fine.  She does a combination of interview style andsolo session episodes, that are always full of real-talk, humor, andmotivation.

What are your favorite wellness podcasts?

5 Simple Self-Care Practices for the Holidays

The holidays can get a little crazy. With allthe shopping, decorating, planning and celebrating, it's easy to put yourselfon the back burner.  This season is allabout giving, but that doesn't mean you have to neglect yourself and yourwellbeing in the process. 

Remember, you can't pour from an emptycup.  We want to make time for everyoneand everything on our list.  But we can'tbe present and give to those around us when we ourselves are not whole. 

Lately, I've been feeling more than a littlestressed and overwhelmed, thinking about my schedule and all that I have to getdone before Christmas. If you can relate, it may be time to add a little self-careto your to-do list. Pencil in some time to reconnect with yourself and rechargeso that you can fully enjoy the holidays.

What is Self-Care?

Self-care is any activity that we do deliberatelyin order to take care of our mental, emotional, and physicalhealth.  This doesn't necessarily meancreating an elaborate beauty routine or scheduling a costly trip to the spa.

Anything that allows you to turn your mindoff, relax, and relieve stress is a form self-care.  It's a way to be good to ourselves andpractice self-love.

There are so many benefits to self-care,especially during this busy season when we tend to over-extend ourselves andour resources. 

ThisChristmas time let’s make our own wellbeing a priority. Here are 5 ways you canpractice self-care over the holidays.

1. Check in with yourself

With so much goingon it's easy to push our feelings to the side and lose touch with ourselves andour emotions.  It's the holidays andwe're supposed to be happy and cheerful. You may feel like you have to be in the Christmas spirit all month long,but that's just not realistic.

How are you reallyfeeling?  Listen to your body. Allowyourself to feel your feelings, good or bad, instead of masking them under aguise of holiday cheer.

Consider journalingor even writing letters to loved ones if something is on your heart.  Writing is a great way to acknowledge ouremotions and process them in healthy ways. 

2. Exercise

Get your endorphinsflowing with a little physical activity. It's a great way to relieve stress,energize your body and clear your head. Whatever form of exercise you enjoy, whether it's lifting weights, yogaor going for a walk, make the time to do it. 

Along with its manyother benefits, exercise is a proven mood-booster.  This is something we could all use. WheneverI work out, I feel much more positive and less stressed out afterward. It'snever something I regret.

I haven't had asmuch time as usual to get to the gym, but I still try to get a little exercisein by doing workout videos at home. That's been a great way to stay active during this hectic season. Thereare tons of free videos on Youtube for almost any type of exercise you canthink of!

3. Eat well

As someone wholoves egg nog and hot chocolate, I would never suggest you abstain from allholiday goodies.  But it's important totake care of your body and find a healthy balance.

There's nothingwrong with treating yourself!  Enjoy thedinners, parties and other gatherings, but in between those events go forlighter, healthier options.  Overindulging on unhealthy foods can cause not only weight gain, but also affectyour mood and energy levels.

Treat your bodywell by balancing the unavoidable treats with nutritious meals to off-set anynegative effects and keep you feeling your best all month long.

4. Cultivate gratitude

Everywhere you lookthere are reminders of all the things you don't have. Commercials andbillboards showcase the latest and greatest of everything. There's anunderlying spirit of materialism that is easy to get caught up in.

Instead of gettingbummed out by what you feel you may be lacking, change your perspective.  Focus on those things that you're grateful forand you'll start to see a positive shift in your mindset and attitude.

Cultivatinggratitude improves overall wellbeing. We feel happier, more content and atpeace in our daily lives. It's been shown to improve mental, emotional and evenphysical health.

Do this as often asyou can.  Try creating a gratitude list.Write down all the things in your life you're grateful for. You may besurprised to see the many blessings you've overlooked.

5. Schedule Downtime

It may seem odd to schedule time to do the activities you enjoy.  But as your calendar fills up, it's easy to neglect doing the things that bring us happiness and allow us to unwind. Activities like hobbies, reading, meditating, or even catching up on a favorite tv show are great ways to de-stress. And this is an essential part of self-care.

With all the socialevents going on, it's a good idea to schedule regular time to slow down and takeit easy. Aim for a little 'me time' at least once a week to make sure you'reable to recharge from all the revelry and socializing.

If you find yourselfovercommitted, don't be afraid to say no! You're not obligated to go to every holiday dinner or ugly sweaterparty.  Prioritize yourself and make timefor the activities that will bring you peace and tranquility even if just for alittle while.

The holidays don’t have to be a crazy time.  Keep things in perspective and be kind to yourself if and when things don't go according to plan.  Combat stress by incorporating a little self-care into your routine whenever possible and have a happier, more enjoyable holiday season.

How do you practice self-care during theholidays (or any time of year)?