Self-care has taken on new importance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Social distancing for some has become isolation. We’re all experiencing various levels of anxiety, fear and confusion. Each of us needs to find ways to manage our reactions to what’s happening.
The Traumatic Loss Coalitions for Youth at Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care recommends we ask ourselves these questions each day to guide us toward better health and well-being:
- Who am I checking in on or connecting with on a daily basis?
- What expectations of “normal” am I letting go of today?
- How am I moving my body today?
- How am I getting outside today?
- How am I expressing my creativity today?
- What type of self-care am I practicing today?
- What am I grateful for today?
Self-Care Approaches:
Practice gratitude
A change in perspective is a simple way to have a positive impact on one’s outlook on the world. One of the most effective ways to increase happiness is by practicing gratitude exercises. Techniques include journaling (making a list of things you take for granted), talking with others, or acknowledging at least three good things each day.
Take care of your body
Eat healthy well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.
Get enough sleep
Most people need between seven and eight hours of sleep a night to be able to function effectively. Keep a sleep schedule, getting to bed the same time each night. Make sure your room is dark and cool. Don’t exercise right before bedtime.
Take breaks
Take time each day to read a book, watch a favorite movie, call a friend, or engage in other enjoyable activities.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness involves keeping your attention in the present moment, without judging it as happy or sad, good or bad. The goal is to simply observe. Mindfulness allows you to calmly and consciously accept whatever is happening, moment to moment.
