While our experiences are unique during the Covid-19 pandemic, there’s one thing we can all agree on: we’re facing a lot more challenges at home than we’re used to. Here’s how to get the most of that extra time indoors.
It has now been a year and a half into the Covid-19 global pandemic, and it kind of feels like we’re floating somewhere in between halftime and the final quarter—except now the concession stands are empty and the clock never seems to run out. According to the American Psychology Association (APA), anxiety and stress are at an all-time high for Americans since 2021.1 If you’re struggling with being at home, you’re not alone. Here are some ways to make it easier:
Designate a Workspace
Working or studying from home has its pros and cons. You can wear pajamas, hang out with your pets, and have practically no commute. But how can we stay connected to our co-workers and classmates when we’re working and studying from home? To make things trickier, when you live in the same space that you work, the lines often become blurred between office and personal life. And even though many couples are at home together, it’s getting easier and easier to cramp each other’s work style.
To keep your work and personal life separate, set up an area of your home designated for work only, preferably in a room separate from your significant other. It can be as simple as a chair and lap tray or as detailed as a home office. This will help your brain know when to focus and when to relax. (And we could all use a little more relaxation these days.) One last tip: noise-cancelling headphones go a long way!
Stay Active
It can be harder to get steps in when you’re working from home. Make sure to take breaks from your work to walk outside, jump rope, do yoga, or hop on an exercise bike. You may even want to go as far as installing a makeshift gym in an extra space to get the most out of your time at home. Dumbbells and medicine balls are easy to store in small areas and can give you a lot of bang for your buck. Or you can jump on the Peloton trend and invest in a Peloton Bike and fitness membership. With Peloton, you can join live exercise classes (beyond just cycling) wherever you are, so you stay safely connected to the things that matter most, like being active and participating in group fitness.
Practice Self-Care
It’s important that we take extra care of our mental health during this trying time, whether we do so by journaling, meditating, dancing, or therapy. There are plenty of therapy options, too. Many companies offer counseling services as part of their benefits packages, or there are reputable online therapy apps such as Better Help or Talk Space. And of course, local therapists are always a great resource as well.
Keep Calm at Home
Another way to ensure your mental health is at the top of your game is by maintaining a calming environment at home. Those who live alone may be struggling with the stress of isolation, while households with multiple adults, children, or pets may be overwhelmed with too much stimulation. I Remember that children too are dealing with a wide range of emotions as they make sense of the pandemic, so creating a calm space at home is essential for their well-being.
Harbor a safe environment by encouraging open communication with your partner and/or children. Let them know it’s okay to talk about how they’re feeling whenever they need to. Set a daily schedule for your household to provide structure and predictability. And lastly, plan activities you or your family can look forward to, whether it’s a movie night, writing letters to relatives, or baking dessert.
If you need a little extra calm during a stressful day, there’s always the app—Calm, which has a large variety of meditations, audiobooks, and other mindful techniques that the whole family can enjoy.
Summary
While you navigate a new normal from home, remember to take it a day at a time and take breaks as often as needed. Reach out to friends and family when you’re having a difficult time, and most of all, go easy on yourself. You’re doing your best.
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