As the days stretched into weeks, many of us in lockdown mode with our families began seeking ways to include a little bit of self-care in our lives. New challenges like working from home and facilitating kids’ school at home activities were added to our already endless to-do lists. These challenges, coupled with balancing everything that comes with family and home, create a space where making time for a self-care routine during a pandemic is essential.
Observing stay-at-home orders means trips to the yoga studio or gym are not in the cards right now. Finding ways to honor ourselves, our feelings, and attending to our own needs is important now more than ever. According to a Kaiser Family Foundation Poll, nearly half of all Americans report that the current coronavirus crisis is affecting their mental health.
Know when to step away
Give yourself grace
We’re living an unprecedented experience during this global pandemic. Even the most introverted of us are social by nature as connection and interaction are a basic human need. There is no playbook to tell us how to proceed during a pandemic. Extending grace to ourselves is just as important as extending it to others.
Recognize that there will be ups and downs. The rollercoaster ride of emotions will eventually take their toll. It’s when we extend grace to ourselves and realize that taking time out for self-care isn’t selfish. It’s necessary if we’re going to be there for those who rely on us.
Shorter reminds us to try to find those pockets in our days where we can practice a self-care activity. “Remember to take the moments when you can find them to do what makes you happy; find or rediscover the things that give you peace.”
