With community events being cancelled, schools being closed, and the stock market trending downward, it’s no surprise that the coronavirus is causing a lot of stress for individuals and families. To help you take care of yourself and your loved ones, we’ve gathered a few ideas on how to de-stress and make the most of this difficult situation.
1. Stay active.
Keeping busy is the easiest way to distract yourself from unpleasant thoughts. Use time spent at home to work on projects inside or around the outside of your house. We previously wrote about spring cleaning projects you can do to increase the safety and efficiency of your home. Use this opportunity to get the whole family involved in housework. Warmer weather also makes it more comfortable to spend time outside in your yard. Read a book in the fresh air or play catch with your family or pets. When you start to get hungry, fire up the grill and have a delicious barbecue.
2. Family activities.
There are plenty of fun things families can do from home. Watch a movie or two that everyone enjoys, or give something new a try. With digital streaming services, thousands of movie titles are just a couple clicks away. Play board games and video games you haven’t touched in a while. Eat a nice dinner together. Don’t be afraid to even just sit down and talk together as a family. Spending quality time with your family helps remind us all of the important things in life.
3. Exercise.
Working out is a great way to de-stress at the end of the day. Fortunately, there are lots of exercises you can do from home without the need for specific equipment. Focus on a routine that includes planks, pushups, squats, leg lifts, or bicycles for an easy, well-rounded workout that will build strength and get your heart rate up.
4. Learn with your kids.
School closings across the state are forcing students to study from home. Use this opportunity to become more involved in what your kids are learning and offer to help them with their homework. Who knows, you may learn a few new things yourself.
5. Live alone? Call a friend.
Technology has made it easier than ever to keep in touch with our loved ones. Whether on the phone or via Skype, talking to people has been proven to reduce feelings of depression and anxiousness.
The most important thing to remember during this crisis is that we are all in this together. And when people are united in the face of a common struggle, communities become much healthier and stronger. Things will return to normal eventually. From your friends at Artisan Electric, we encourage you to stay positive and reflect on the things you can control right now to maintain a healthy mind, body, and spirit.