If you're paying attention to what the news is saying about the novel coronavirus, you know that stress levels are high for a lot of the population around the world. No matter what country you're in, directly or indirectly, we have all been impacted by the coronavirus one way or another. Unfortunately, people all around the globe are getting sick, losing loved ones, and losing their jobs, so it's quite understandable how stress levels can get high. In times like these, especially in isolation, it is important to find ways to de-stress that work for you (while still obeying CDC quarantine guidelines):
1. Go outside and enjoy the sun!
Studies indicate that decreased exposure to the sun may result in serotonin levels to drop, which is likely to increase depressive thoughts. An average of just thirty minutes of sunlight a day has shown to increase serotonin and reduce melatonin in your system.
2. Do some stretching.
After being inside all day, we tend to stay stagnant and not use our bodies in the same capacity that we used to. Stretching is a good way to release tension build-up in your muscles. Focus on stretching and relaxing each individual muscle.
3. Don't forget to exercise!
Some hate doing it, for good and obvious reasons. Especially now, it's hard to find the motivation to get up and move. Physical exercise has proven effective at improving concentration, reducing fatigue, and enhancing general cognitive function. No matter what it is, do your best to get up and get moving.
4. Try some breathing techniques.
When stress happens, it's usually because of getting stuck in a loop in your head - overthinking with no ending. The trick for this is to distract your brain by focusing on your breathing. The 4-7-8 method has shown effective results in relieving stress and anxiety. Breathe in through your nose for four counts, hold for seven counts, and breathe out through your mouth for eight counts. Repeat this three times or until calm.
5. Distract yourself.
An effective way to calm the mind is typically to do something that causes you to be distracted from your own thoughts. Taking a shower, playing a board game, and watching TV are a few easy examples. And with the amount of technology we have today, it's not too hard to find a stress relief app or a fidget game to play!
Of course, there are many other options and activities to help relieve stress and different methods work for different people! During this time of isolation, it's important to take the time to find healthy ways to cope with and manage your stress.
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