Isolation Brings New Opportunities

The outbreak of Corona Virus has led to many unsettling changes and a feeling of uncertainty. In addition to the anxiety that everyone is dealing with, many of us are currently in isolation which compounds the stress we are already experiencing. Although it can feel overwhelming at times, here are some tips for taking care of your emotional wellbeing at this challenging time:

• Use good judgment when it comes to keeping yourself updated.

Make sure your information comes from a reliable source (e.g., a government website) and schedule a limited time to check it daily. Otherwise, refrain from following the news obsessively as this can heighten your anxiety.

• Do your best to maintain a positive routine.

It’s important to fill your day with positive activities and to try to maintain as much of a routine as possible. Read a book you’ve been wanting to read, watch an engaging TV show or movie, try a new recipe… Within the limits of taking appropriate precautions, find enjoyable and productive ways to occupy your time.

• Find the opportunities offered by this challenging time.

The limitations on our usual activities offer some surprising opportunities. Consider the items on your to-do list that you usually have no time to get to, and use your unexpected downtime to work on them. This will enhance your feeling of productivity and control.

• Connect with your loved ones.

Another way to use your extra time is to build your relationships. If you have kids at home, use the time to play games with them, read to them, or just talk with them. Call your friends for a good chat. Social support is a wonderful antidote to anxiety. Both receiving and providing emotional support can alleviate the stress you’re experiencing.

• Get moving!

Exercise is a wonderful stress reliever. Put on some great music and find a way to move that gets your heart rate up for several minutes.

• If you’re feeling particularly stressed, try some mindful breathing.

Deep breathing has been known to reduce the body’s physiological stress response. If you find yourself feeling particularly anxious, take a few minutes to breathe in for a count of four seconds, hold for two seconds, and breathe out for six seconds. Repeat for 4-6 breaths, and if possible, continue until your body feels calmer and your muscles are more relaxed.

• Remind yourself that life will go on.

Remember that nothing is permanent; everything changes. There may be a “new normal” for a while, and all of us will adjust to it. No matter how difficult things seem at the time, nothing is forever.