Introduction
This article is a bit different from the topics we choose to write about. But since a long weekend is approaching for some and there could be more time spent in homes, we thought it was appropriate at this time to address the subject of anxiety, unease and maybe occasional panic in these uncertain and chaotic times. We provide just a few reflections on taking care of yourself to have a good work-life balance to stay centered.
Reaction to Coronavirus
As COVID-19 continues to make its way into cities, suburbs and rural areas across the nation, it’s becoming increasingly more difficult to remain calm and not panic.
Authorities have told us to say in our homes in order to prevent spread, but that does not mean that we should go crazy inside and solely focus our attention on what is happening with the world outside. Try to limit how much news you watch, especially some of the over-hyped reporting that only propagates fear and anxiety. First and foremost, get updates and facts from reliable sources, and then focus your attention elsewhere.
You can avoid contact with other people and wash your hands more carefully, but your ability to remain calm comes from within. That means you’ll have to take the necessary steps in reducing your stress and anxiety and promoting calmness while the virus runs its course.
We’re going to go over three of the best ways that you can stay calm and centered in times of COVID-19 stress!
Mindfulness & Meditation
So, you’re anxious and stressed as a result of the rapid spread of Coronavirus. If you’ve never attempted meditation or any mindfulness techniques in the past, this is the perfect time to try them out and get some practice under your belt.
According to the Mayo Clinic, meditation can play a huge role in helping you to maintain your mental and emotional health, even benefiting aspects of your physical health. Here’s what meditation can do for you.
- Greater outlook on life (positivity)
- Increased feelings of calmness
- Greater self-awareness
- Reduced levels of anxiety and stress.
- Improved focus
The best part is: There are plenty of different types of meditation.
If you’re able to focus for long periods of time, you might want to try out guided meditations or visualization techniques. When you’re looking to stay more active while you’re quarantined, you can give yoga or Pilates a go!
Draw on a Creative Outlet
You might be stuck in the house for the next few weeks, but that doesn’t mean you have to resort to going stir crazy. In fact, that’ll probably only increase your feelings of panic during such trying times!
This is a great time to try out some new (or old) creative hobbies. When you’re focused on building or creating something new, you’re reducing the amount of focus on the negativity surrounding you. That means creativity is a solid way of helping you to relax.
A creative outlet can be almost anything. Here are a few things you might want to try out.
- Painting, coloring, or drawing
- Singing or playing musical instruments
- Taking photos or videos of things you enjoy
- Building something with things lying around the house
- Writing
- Puzzles
- Reading something and then writing an essay about it (yes, remember English 101 class?). This is a great way to take your mind off the world’s troubles.
Basically, the goal here is to find an activity or task that requires focus and makes you happy. You won’t even notice that you spent the last hour drawing your favorite cartoon character.
Giving Back & Helping Others
It’s completely natural to be fearful of the unknown, but giving back to others can help you to tackle this fear. When you’re giving back to the community or helping those in need, you’ll be working to spread compassion and happiness rather than fear and anxiety. It will certainly ‘give back’ to you in multiple, subtle ways.
With so many people sick or self-quarantined, many people aren’t able or fear to to leave the home. However, these individuals do still have needs that they now can’t meet on their own.
As long as you’re keeping your distance and not exposing anyone to the virus, you can deliver food and groceries or do things like their yard work. It’ll make you feel good about yourself while also helping those who need it! So, call your neighbors, post something on your Facebook to let those in need know you are available and how to get in contact.
Final Thoughts
You can’t do anything yourself when it comes to curing or eliminating COVID-19, but there are things you can do that can reduce your unease and invoke an overwhelming sense of calmness.
By taking advantage of mindfulness, looking for a creative outlet, or giving back to those who need it, you’ll be able to stay calm and centered, even now!
To help you stay calm and centered at work, Flexicrew can assist you with workforce planning and recruiting the quality talent that you need during recession. Contact one of our workforce professionals Today!
And, by the way, have a happy, calm Labor Day.