Self-care in the time of uncertainty can seem a challenge. Right now, our brains and bodies are still trying to create a routine. We have been thrown into uncharted territory and simply aren’t sure what to do.
Now, more than ever, it’s important to take care of our physical and mental health. And although that may seem to be a daunting task, there are some simple things you can schedule into your daily routine which may be helpful.
And yes, I said “schedule”. One of the most challenging aspects of going through this time of isolation is maintaining a schedule. Those who were very busy, and had their days planned out, may be feeling like they are in limbo.
Creating a schedule of tasks, meals, work/school, and adding in self-care, can help us maintain balance and purpose. This, in turn, can help us feel less chaotic and more focused.
And if you’re doing dual duty because your child is now essential being homeschooled by you, while you are continuing to do your own job from home, scheduling and planning may be just the answer to keeping sane.
Just don’t forget to be flexible, too. Right now, maintaining a perfectly run household, job, and family probably would add to the stress. So, take a day off here & there to have some fun, sleep in once in a while, and check out the 5 Easy Self-Care Techniques listed below:
Meditate – There are so many forms of meditation, from beginner to expert. Here are a few of my personal favorites that have helped me.
- Counting breaths – do this slowly with your eyes closed. Try breathing in to 4 and breathing out to 5. Repeat.
- Walk, with your gaze focused on the ground just ahead of you. Pay attention to the ground, and simply “be.”
- Listen to a guided meditation or instrumental music. Sit quietly, and don’t multi-task. This is you time.
- Drink a cup of herbal tea (or coffee), sipping slowly, and savoring the aroma and flavor.
Keep a Journal – Journaling can be as formal or informal as you like. You can set aside a specific time of day to do it, or whenever the mood strikes you. Use a fancy journal, or a plain notebook.
- Dream Journal – keep track of your dreams by writing down the major events or symbols when you wake up.
- Affirmation Journal – Pick an affirmation and write down examples of how it is proven true in your life.
- Pro & Con Journal – Working on a major decision? Write a list of pros & cons, and then journal about each item on the list. Use this to help make your decision.
- Q&A Journal – Pick a question to answer, and then write your answer. Go as deep into the why as you can. Explore your thoughts, emotions, etc. See where it takes you.
Gentle Movement – It is important to get the body moving throughout the day. This helps the brain signal the release of endorphins, which lift the mood. It helps the body maintain flexibility – and burns calories. Pick the level of rigor that best suits you.
- Simple stretching – Get up, stretch your arms, legs, fingers, toes.
- Go for a walk – Even just up and down the stairs, or around the block.
- Dance – Put on some music and have some fun.
- Yoga – Even just a few yoga stretches are helpful (I love the warrior and tree stances)
- Tai-Chi – This gentle martial art is a wonderful form of moving meditation.
- Qi-Gong – Combine breathing and movement for even more benefit.
Get out in Nature – Breathing the fresh air is a mood lifter, all by itself. And when we don’t have many of our normal outlets, getting outside can be just the thing we need to maintain physical and emotional balance.
- Gardening – Getting your hands into the earth helps ground you, and dirt contains microbes that help boost your immune system, as well as mood.
- Tree-Hugging – I know, I know. Hug a tree? Actually, it’s fun and very grounding.
- Earthing – Being barefoot, and reconnecting with the Earth’s natural energies.
- Shin-rin Yoku – Forest Bathing, meaning to take in the sights and sounds of nature.
Take a Bath – There is a reason that bathing rituals go back thousands of years. They are not just about getting clean; they are also about connecting with and clearing our emotions. Adding candles and soft music can add to a soothing and relaxing experience.
- Salt Baths – Soothes, softens, and pulls out toxins. Just don’t soak for more than 20 minutes.
- Herbal Baths – These can help with relaxation, pain management, and more.
- Oatmeal Baths – Helpful when your skin needs soothing. Combine with white clay for a more soothing action.
- Essential oils – Different scents can help soothe, relax, clear the mind. Please use oils responsibly and remember to blend with a smidge of soap (or another emulsifier) before placing in the water.
Scheduling some self-care time for yourself isn’t difficult, it’s a commitment. Make that commitment to yourself. You’ll be glad you did.
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Disclaimer: Linden Tree Intuitive would like to remind you to consult with your doctor for all things medical. We do not diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any illness or disease. All material in this blog is for informational purposes only, and you are encouraged to do your own research and question everything!
