Struggling to maintain focus during this period? With all things Coronavirus cluttering our thoughts, it’s important to take a breather and seek a little escapism – because your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
Take a look at the top 5 things we suggest to boost positivity…
1. Practice mindfulness
- Ignore the past and future – focus on your current state of mind, your thoughts and your feelings.
- Take breaks from social media and news websites – everything that’s popping up on our screens can be overwhelming, so mute potential triggers and stay off your phone for a while (removing apps from your home screen can help squash the urge to open them!)
- Practice breathing exercises – yoga and Pilates are known to be great ways to relieve stress and calm the body
2. Keep active
If you’re a member of a gym and it’s still safe to work out, then get those good endorphins going with a workout. If your mind’s still drifting, switch up your usual routine and try using some different weights or machines. If it’s a no to the gym, go for a run in an open area or do a home workout. There are plenty of workout videos on YouTube – why not get the family involved too?
3. Connect with others
Speaking to friends and family members is a great way to distract your mind. Try scheduling virtual visits, playing an online game together or simply checking in on each other. Support others by sharing and encouraging positivity – a simple message or funny video is a small yet effective way to lift someone’s mood.
4. Learn a new skill
Is there something you’ve always wanted to do but never had the time? Now’s the perfect time to actually do it! Whether it be a new hobby, learning to play an instrument or taking an online course, learning a new skill is a great way to keep you mentally engaged. Find online forums and join with others who are learning the same skills – you’ll naturally build relationships and be able to share positive experiences.
5. Maintain a healthy diet
Eating healthy foods and maintaining a well-balanced diet will improve your mood more than you think. It’s easy to reach for comfort food when you’re stressed or tired, but by staying hydrated, eating your greens and keeping your caffeine levels in check, you can end up thinking more clearly and feeling better on the inside. Take a look at healthy recipes online and challenge yourself by cooking some new dishes.
