How are you all doing? Are you stressed? Bored? Depressed? Hopeful?

I’ve been all over the place with my emotions. One minute just totally overwhelmed/stressed/sad about the state of the world and then the next, soaking up the quality time we’ve had with our family. I’ve never seen so much of Eric and just having him around the house so I can sneak out and run while the kids nap or just sit and enjoy lunch together is really nice.

We’ve figured out this dance of being at home together and I’m really enjoying our new rhythm. As much as I want the world to get back to normal, I will miss this quality time we’ve had.

I thought I’d share what I’m doing to reduce my stress levels with all these unknowns due to the corona virus and inspire you to maybe do the same!

LIMIT NEWS UPDATES:

I feel like the only thing on the news these days are updates of Covid-19, understandably. That’s why I let myself check those updates once a day. I pick one news outlet and let that be my source!

SET A SCHEDULE:

I know this seems impossible or silly, especially when the days can blur, but personally, having an agenda for the day (or a week as a whole!) is so helpful for me managing stress (and also passing the time). I’ll schedule time outside, time upstairs, time doing crafts, and of course, time for myself.

HAVE ALONE TIME:

I’m used to having a lot of alone time with Eric’s travels but now I have less time to myself. So I’ll get to bed a half hour early to read my book or get up at 6am to start the day before the kids. Each of us needs a little breathing room and a time to collect ourselves. I think it’s so important you get some alone time that doesn’t involve a device or chore!

HAVE A CLEAN WORKSPACE:

Or move to another room. It’s so easy to want to work at the kitchen counter but personally, I’m unproductive when my space is a mess. Just a stray dish will flare up some anxiety in me. I’ll often retreat to the office or wipe the counters before I sit.

CONNECT WITH OTHERS:

Schedule a zoom conference with friends. Facetime with your grandparents. It is so important to connect with our loved ones to keep in touch, not feel isolated, and make each other laugh.

EXERCISE:

This may seem impossible for some of you, especially those with kids who aren’t nappers (the first who come to mind), but a little blood flow and sweat does wonders for the mind. So many people are offering discounted or free online work outs if you can’t get outside. This is the best way for me to process everything that’s going on and blow off steam.

SLEEP:

I have indulged a little too much in the wine & treats and it’s been taking it’s toll. A good night’s sleep really helps me start the day with a good attitude. And I just feel GOOD in general. Find a way to rest, any way you can!

How are you managing your stress?

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