Making time for yourself at the moment can be a challenge – lockdown is difficult and keeping up with the daily news can be hard.
Here are a few thoughts on how to practice self-care, from exercise and diet to reading and sleep. If you don’t feel up to doing anything, that’s fine – everyone is different and needs different things. These are just a few ideas.
Exercise
Getting moving is easier said than done, but it can significantly boost your mood.
Exercising at home can be simple and there are options for most ages and abilities, including yoga videos or cardio workouts online.
Keep up your routine
It’s easy to slip into the habit of sleeping late, spending all day in your pyjamas and snacking, but looking after yourself is essential. Simple tasks can feel difficult but dressing and planning the day can make a big difference to the way you feel. Try and establish a daily routine that suits you.
If you don’t feel up to doing anything, though, that’s fine. It’s important to be kind to yourself and recognise when you need a break.
Set up friendship groups
Set up a friendship group with family or friends and regularly check in with each other, either online or by phone. That way, you can offer support or reach out to others if you need to.
Even just sending daily updates can help you feel more connected during this time.
Write or craft
Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help offload any worries and fears you may have. It’s also important to try to keep busy, going for a daily walk or learning a new skill.
There are plenty of activities you can take up at home, including crafts, painting, reading, cooking and baking.
Sleep.
An early night is a good night! Try to avoid staying up till the early hours and get plenty of sleep. Before bedtime allow yourself to fully wind down and establish a regular nightly routine.
It’s best to keep occupied for part of your day if possible, exercise or activities are ideal. Keeping busy should help your evening sleep patterns.
Read books
Reading can be very calming. It’s good to avoid just following the news or social media and dip into a book. Books that have nothing to do with the current situation, fiction or nonfiction, can be an excellent way of lifting your mood.
Listen to music
Music can help change your mood and is great for a bit of escapism. There are plenty of free ways to listen to music from Spotify to YouTube. You could try experimenting and listen to new genres of music.
Even better, you could make your own music at home.