Taking Care of Yourself during the Pandemic

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Taking Care of Yourself During the Pandemic

Everyone is feeling stress because of the pandemic. Due to its unpredictable nature, changing news, and uncertainty, it activates an anticipatory stress reaction in all of us. Our brains are wired to protect us, so we look for threats and negative stimuli in our environments. As this goes on over time for extended periods, it can be tiring and stressful. It is imperative to take care of our minds and bodies by:

Being aware of our emotions and noticing any withdrawals

into isolation. Just by acknowledging how we are feeling, it gives us momentum into taking action towards what may help. Allowing yourself to experience grief or loss. Don’t stuff down your reactions. It is OK to cry. Taking care of your body, overall wellness, and self-care will drive emotional wellness. e.g., Enjoy nutritious food, limit alcohol, get your rest.

Reading or listening to a book that has been on your list for

awhile. Reading is a soothing activity and studies show that

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after about 30 minutes of reading, most people experience additional relaxation sensations. If you have low vision or prefer audiobooks, you can access those online, through apps, and at local libraries. Journaling as a means of reflection and intention. Writing is cathartic and putting your thoughts on paper is healing. Being mindful of your obligations: Don’t overbook yourself. Saying yes too much can be taxing on your energy. Being gentle with yourself. Notice your self-talk and adjust when you get too critical of yourself. Using guided meditation or prayer. Studies show our brain waves change when meditating or praying, encouraging healthy neuroplasticity and helping support gratitude and positivity as we practice it. Walking and being outside. Humans are like plants in that we do well with some fresh air and sunshine! This helps support serotonin production. The rhythm and repetition of walking has a relaxing effect, will help decrease apprehension and anxiety, and improve your sleep. Taking a break from electronics and screens. Our brains are being overworked right now, and sometimes changing up the stimulation is beneficial. Avoid blue light screens, such as laptops and smartphones, about an hour before you go to bed. Blue light is activating and can disrupt falling asleep. Limit the time spent on news channels and websites to a certain amount of time each day. Usually you can get the headlines in 15 minutes or less.

Feelings of isolation and loneliness can rise in winter months. Ironically, people tend to become more quiet and reach out less when they aren’t feeling well. If you haven’t heard from someone in a while, give them a call or send a message to say you are thinking of them. Victoria Alexander, LISW-S, is the Older Adult Program Coordinator at Syntero.

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Call us for more information at (614) 274-7650 or visit us online at www.voicecorps.org.