How Can I Cope With COVID Stress?
Can you remember the last time you felt totally relaxed? Most people have been under so much stress with COVID that we forget HOW to relax and our go-to coping strategies aren’t as easy to access. “Neflix and Chill” isn’t as relaxing anymore because people have watched every Netflix movie/show imaginable. Going out to dinner creates stress in trying to find someplace that has outdoor seating. Meditating? If you live with other people it is very hard to find a quiet space to be able to meditate.
We spend so much time prioritizing work and family that we forget to take the time to relax and/or we are out of ideas of what we can do to relax during COVID. One of the great things about relaxing is that it is something you can do for free. Sure, a vacation is a great way to de-stress, but there are methods that are equally effective, and which don’t cost you a penny (AND you can do these thing even during COVID travel restrictions).
Let’s take a look at a few of those ideas:
ONE: Stop, take deep breaths, and look at the beautiful sky overhead.
TWO: Have one day a week where you do not talk about or even think about your job. This can be a little trickier if you are a stay at home parent. Perhaps you take an hour for yourself each day, which can be done when the kids are down for a nap.
THREE: Think about hobbies that you may have had in the past, but which you stopped due to perceived time constraints. If those hobbies brought you joy, find a way to work the back into your life. Alternatively, take up a hobby that has always interested you, but which you have never tried.
FOUR: Before you turn in for the night, pause for a moment of reflection. Think of at least one positive thing that happened to you during the course of the day. If nothing immediately springs to mind, just remember that making it through another day is positive in itself.
FIVE: Talk to a friend or family member that you don’t live with. It becomes very easy to be unhappy and feel isolated if you don’t engage in conversation.
SIX: Try to ask a few friends/family members if they want to do a “zoom recipe”. Everyone can get their own ingredients and when it is time to cook, just prop up your phone on the counter and have fun cooking with family/friends.
SEVEN: If you are still having trouble controlling anxiety or worry or you simply can’t relax, think about reaching out to a therapist near you. A therapist can help you with techniques that are specifically tailored to you and your needs.
If you live in California and are looking for a therapist, please give us a call at Long Beach Therapy: 562-310-9741.