Things changed so quickly.
For many of us, it feels like we are on pause. Instead of spending our days outside enjoying the approaching warm weather, it is easy to feel as if we are simply behind glass, looking out, wondering when life will resume.
Since the COVID-19 crisis began, we have offered you suggestions on how to improve your relationship in a social-distancing-friendly manner, how to keep up your relationships when you can’t see your loved ones in person, and how to give back to your community.
It’s important, now more than ever, to reach out and maintain those ties that bind. But it’s equally as important to practice self-care. After all, you can’t fully invest in a relationship if you’re not whole yourself. And many of the things that fulfill us may be off limits right now. So how do you practice self-care if you can’t get to the gym, go for a manicure, have a picnic in the park with loved ones, or whatever else you usually do to get centered? Netflix binge sessions are great, but sometimes you need to get away from the screen for a bit. We’ve got a few ideas.
Embrace Art
Even if you’re not an art aficionado, doing something creative is balm for the soul. Maybe an adult coloring book and some vibrant colored pencils are your jam, or perhaps you prefer watercolors. Tap into your memories of elementary school art class (clay bowls, anyone?) and see what supplies you can dig up to indulge your inner creativity.
Do Some Gardening
Even if you live in an apartment, this is the right time of year to encourage new life by planting some seeds or starts. A kitchen mini-herb garden is easy to grow and useful for all that cooking you’ve doing lately. Or plant a flower box. If you find yourself working from home, you’ll have time to remember to water your seedlings, so even if you’re usually a black thumb, you might succeed this time.
Tackle That Home Project
Have you been meaning to paint your bathroom, fix your faucet, or tackle that Pinterest pin you saved two years ago but have never had the time for? Now’s that time. And there’s something so satisfying about improving your home. The project will get you out of any rut in which you might find yourself, with the bonus of making the place you spend all your time just a little nicer.
We’re all in this together, and it’s not going to last forever. A little self-care now will go a long way later when we’re all back to our busy lives. Hang in there, and stay well
