COVID-19 stress is sweeping the world along with the virus. The pandemic (and stress) does not seem to be ending soon with the delayed reopening of schools and large events starting to be canceled months in advance. This can be seen in the empty store shelves and delayed shipping times as consumers worry about having enough supplies. It does not have to be all bad news. COVID-19 stress relief can help to thrive during this time and give the immune system a boost, too.
It is hard to escape the worrisome realities of the virus when it is all over the media and dominates conversations. There is stress related to the possibility of contracting the virus, additional health complications, too much strain on the medical system, and everything that goes along with quarantine. Parents are stressed about homeschooling, working from home is not always easy, and there is the economic stress. The list goes on. The stress mounts and can spiral out of control.
Now more than ever is the time for stress relief, and specific COVID-19 stress relief.
Why is stress relief so important in the face of a pandemic? Stress can wreak havoc on the immune system, making it more likely to get sick and harder to recover. Stress can also be contagious. Children may sense stress in parents and become scared. High stress at home, especially when quarantined, can lead to arguments. Stress makes it difficult to sleep well. Sleep strengthens the immune system and is necessary for recovery. To make matters worse, quarantine eliminates some stress relief options.
So, what can be done in quarantine to relieve stress?
COVID-19 stress relief tips:
1. Pause.
So much is on hold right now. You can pause, too. When you start to feel stressed or overwhelmed, pause to consider the realities.
Are you okay in this moment? If not, seek help immediately. Call your medical professionals, emergency medical services at 911, or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
If you are okay in this moment and just a bit stressed, consider the areas where you have no control. Worrying about it will not make it any better. Accept that you have no control and say something like: “I have no control of this, I hope it will be better than I fear, and I am letting it go.” Now, consider the areas where you do have control. What can you do to make things better for yourself? Do those things!
2. Find the little things that work for you.
What helps you to relieve stress? Do you like warm baths, reading books, or journaling? Do you have a hobby that has been pushed aside? What about a walk or exercise? Do the things that are stress relieving for you. Make time for these things. Schedule something for yourself every day, even if it is only a few minutes.
3. Take advantage of the opportunity.
Life is different now than it was before COVID-19. Consider what parts of these changes could be for the better. I know, tough task for extroverts, but there has to be at least one thing. This may mean spending quality time with the people who live in your home, being more involved in your kids’ education, or long calls with friends and family. It could be something as simple as wearing pajamas all day or getting food delivered instead of going to the grocery store. Maybe you are able to do something fun at home instead of all the in-person obligations that filled your calendar before. Find a change you appreciate and fully enjoy it.
4. Grant yourself permission.
You can be sad, angry, scared, or feel any other emotions that come your way. (Just make sure to move through negative emotions so you feel better!) You do not have to be perfect throughout this pandemic. Social distancing is hard sometimes. Grant yourself permission to be imperfect. You are doing the best you can, and you are doing great!
5. Try a relaxation exercise.
Relaxation exercises are a great way to help the body and mind relax together for less stress, more productivity, and to feel better. Try the relaxation exercise below. If you already have one you like, use it regularly. This is a great thing to do before bed, especially if sleeping well has been a challenge.
Bonus for COVID-19 stress relief:
If you are looking for support during this challenging time, or if you need more than tips and relaxation exercises, reach out to us. We are here for you – remotely!
Email info@epigenwellness.com and let us know what is going on with you. We will happily provide you with options or refer you to someone else.