We’ve seen a lot of comment on how to get through this lock down effectively and it’s brilliant that we’re all coming together - long may that continue.
One of the most common ‘tips’ is to be kind to yourself and not to put too much pressure on yourself, which of course we agree with, especially at a time where stress, worry, and loneliness are prevalent.
Many of us are facing a tricky and sometimes impossible balancing act over the coming few weeks –working from home whilst home schooling, or managing a hectic and stressful work life whilst flat sharing. Whatever it may look like, now might be a good time to let go of perfectionism. As Sheryl Sandberg said – “Done is better than perfect”.
However, we believe that it is important to stay balanced with our outlook here, as throwing all normality out the window can make space for behaviour isn’t potentially in our best interests and which in the long run, could make us feel worse.
Sometimes what we all need is to be a little firmer with ourselves to stay ‘on-track’ so we can reap the rewards later. It’s so easy to hit the snooze button, to not make our beds, to shower at 11am, to watch that extra episode of whatever boxset we’re currently on rather than go to bed, to not take your vitamins, to skip vegetables at lunch… etc. We’ve found that now more than ever, making healthy choices and keeping your routine (and even adding in some daily ’self-care’ rituals) might just help to make you feel more up-beat, healthier, motivated and see you through this testing time in a healthy, happier way.
Here are some of the things that are helping us:
For any Mums – we find setting our alarm 20 minutes before the kids normally wake up (as long as this isn’t too early!) gives you this golden time for yourself so you’re calmer when the madness begins. Obviously this doesn’t always go to plan but it’s worth it – even if just 1 or 2 days/week.
Plan what you want your self-care to look like. You’re more likely to achieve most things in life with a good plan vs no plan at all, and your self-care is no different. Write a list, do some research, slot times into your schedule and stick to it. It’s the little steps that collectively lead to improved overall wellness.
VITAMINS (obviously!) but seriously, now more than ever if you were considering a health supplement it’s the time to add one in and take religiously. We’ve taken away the need for timely research on which products to combine; our Formulas are the only supplements on the market that cleverly nourish all systems in the body, in one easy product.
Wake up, go to bed and eat at the same time each day; the body needs this routine for its natural cycles to flow well, and it will help you remain balanced.
Ground yourself - which is in effect bringing yourself back down to earth when your mind has run away with itself. 10 slow deep breaths and body scanning (noticing all sensations in the body/feeling each limb) will all work to make you feel more calm and connected.
Check in with yourself - taking note of how you feel and why - and what you can do to help you feel better (rest, deep breaths, a quick walk in fresh air?). Journaling in this way has been shown to be effective in working through testing times. Though it’s wonderful to write a list of goals and gratitude, don’t be afraid to also write the negatives if that’s how you’re feeling. Sometimes getting it down on paper can help you reason it through and gain perspective - and there is something quite cathartic in throwing it away once you’re done.
Self-care ideas: Epsom salt baths, facial massage (gut sha), face masks, body scrubs, nutritious smoothies, hydrating, good-mood-food (see our recent blog) a walk in the park are all great ways to practice self-care.
