Navigating the New Normal: Self-Care Tips for Coping with Social Isolation
It's been five days since I've worn anything but my pajamas, and I'm not even sure what time it is anymore. I feel like I'm not at my best, and it's starting to worry me. As I sit here, scrolling through my phone for the hundredth time today, I realized something that made me uneasy. This could be my new reality.
If you're like me and struggling with the sudden change in our lives, then you're in the right place. This is not for the people who are thriving during this time, who think it's ridiculous for anyone to complain about being stuck at home. No, this is for those who are struggling with their mental health, family dynamics, and toxic isolation. This is for those who are finding it difficult to adapt to this new reality.
It's easy to give in to the temptation of staying in bed all day, but I'm advocating for taking the time to wash your face. It's a small act, but it can make a world of difference. It can help you feel refreshed and ready to take on the day, even if you're just going to be sitting on the couch.
I know that everyone has been saying to keep a routine, but let's be honest, it's easier said than done. It's hard to stick to a routine when everything around us is changing so rapidly. Instead, I've learned to forgive myself for messing up my routine. It's okay to not have everything under control, and it's okay to take things one day at a time.
In general, it's important to forgive ourselves during this time. We're not perfect, and it's natural to feel frustrated and on edge. I know I'm not the best quarantine buddy. I get impatient, I eat too much, and I just want to be left alone. But that's okay, because we're all doing the best we can.
It's essential to use technology to our advantage during this time. We may be physically isolated, but we don't have to be socially isolated. There are so many ways to connect with our loved ones, whether it's through video calls or social media. I've been using Zoom, Houseparty, and Facebook to stay in touch with my family and friends, and it's made a huge difference in my mood.
However, we also need to be careful not to overwhelm ourselves. It's easy to accept every invitation to chat, but it's also important to take breaks and have some alone time. We can't spend our entire day just hopping from one call to the next. It's all about finding the right balance.
In conclusion, this new reality is hard, and we're all struggling in our own ways. But by taking care of ourselves, forgiving ourselves, and staying connected, we can get through this together. Let's keep supporting each other, and let's keep taking things one day at a time.