It’s in our nature for humans to continually be on the go. We are constantly making sure we’re getting to work on time and checking when our next appointment is. So with the world on a literal pause and having been forced to stay inside, what do we do with all this extra time on our hands?

In a time of uncertainty and lack of control, we have been forced to be in put in a state of stagnation. Our lives have been put on hold and we’ve been compelled to slow down. Many have been left without jobs with no income to pay our bills. The amount of stress the past few weeks have caused has left most of the world unsure of what the future may hold. Having no control of our own lives is worrisome and now we’re being forced to stay inside our homes and live a life we are not accustomed to. It’s ok to be angry, frustrated and sad, but is it worth it to keep harboring these emotions from this point on and on a daily basis? Rather than looking at only the negative side of this pandemic, why not try and look at it from a positive perspective? Not only has the environment been thanking us by giving us cleaner air quality and finding new ways to connect with friends and family, we now have the time to physically and mentally take care of ourselves. We have overworked ourselves throughout our life and now the universe is telling us to slow down. It is time to take a break from all the “doing” in your life. Reflect and recenter yourselves. Rewire old thought patterns. Clear out stagnant energy. Decide what it is you want.

When are you going to have this kind of time for yourself again?

JUST BREATHE

We all know how to breathe but have you ever taken some time to focus on taking deep breaths? Deep breathing can help your physical and mental well being as well as calm your nervous system. All you need to do is position yourself in a comfortable and quiet space for about 5-10 minutes. Close your eyes and inhale for a slow 5 seconds and then exhale deeply for another 5. Doing these exercises will put you in a relaxed state of happiness and help you release any tension that your muscles may have.

PRACTICE MEDITATION

Along with deep breathing, meditation is the perfect way to ease stress and calm anxiety, as well as improve your quality of sleep. Same as the breathing exercises, find a quiet and comfortable spot. No matter where you choose to meditate, visualize relaxation. You can listen to the sound of the outside or calm soothing music. If you’re new to meditation, there are guided apps to help such as Headspace and Calm.

TAKe In Nature

Take a walk or jog around your neighborhood or just sit outside your yard or apartment complex courtyard. Take in the fresh air. Smell the flowers. Listen to the sound of the wind and birds chirping. Look at the leaves fall from the tree. Feel the world around you.

RELAX WITH A WARM BATH

Taking a relaxing bath can help you decompress whenever you’re feeling overwhelmed. Make it a peaceful setting by adding candles, flowers, essential oils or even a bath bomb. Relax with a hot cup of tea and take in the ambiance while you let go of all the stress and anxiety you have been holding onto. If you want to take it a step further, adding bath salts and apple cider vinegar can create a detox bath which can help ease pain or exhaustion by removing toxins from the body.

However you choose to spend your time in quarantine is completely up to you. Just remember, we’re all in this together. Stay safe and stay home!