Some Quick Tips for Managing Your Mindset When You're in Self-Isolation

This is my 5th day of being mostly isolated. I say mostly because, since Friday, I’ve run a few necessary-ish errands and also went to work out once.

It took a minute to get my head around this idea of social distancing.

But now I’m a believer. I’m in.

I’m an introvert, so I’m surprised to realize that I’m struggling with the idea that I won’t be going anywhere for a while unless it’s necessary.

This is harder than I thought. I know it will only get harder. I spent most of yesterday in an anxiety-ridden loop between the news and my social media feed.

Not healthy or helpful. I won’t be doing that today.

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We haven’t done any official homeschooling over here. It’s Spring Break. In Normal Land, we wouldn’t be doing homework this week anyway.

So I’ll cross that bridge next week. I do have some resources for activities when it comes to that.

But when it does, Jesus take the wheel, because Ivy is a mini-version of tween Mike + tween Shelley and those that know us well pray for us daily. She’s not keen on structure or parents that tell her what to do.

While she’s not doing school type work, she is crafting. She’s drawing.

She did take it upon herself to create a new canvas. It’s a depiction of our cat, and I can only share it with my friends that are the least offendable.

It’s not classy. But I did laugh until I cried when she showed it to me.

If I had to analyze it, I’d say she’s angry about this situation. (Ivy, not the cat.)

Everyone is talking about the importance of continuing to get exercise. So today I’ll walk my giant dog, Molly, and make her wear a muzzle so she doesn’t scare the bejeezus out of others, like usual.

Last thing I need during this whole deal is to get banned by the HOA from walking my growling horse-dog.

Thankfully, I have several fitness friends and I’ll be stalking their pages for workout videos for even more physical activity. Otherwise, I would end up binging Netflix.

I’m also going to try and stay away from the Oreos. I’m going to try not to eat my feelings.

I’ll also be checking on our neighbors, looking for positive things to share, ways to do good, and likely, overposting, as usual. 😂✌️❤️

This morning, I jotted down list of things I’m going to do to get my mind right during this period of social-distancing. I thought I would share them here, too.

Tips to Manage Your Mindset While Social-Distancing or Self-Isolating…Whatever You Want to Call It

Start each day with a Gratitude List. List or name at least three things you are grateful for. (More if you want!) Get a free Guide to Daily Gratitude here.
Meditate – here are three guided meditations on YouTube you can check out. There are hundreds more if you don’t like any of these.
Eat healthy food. Try to eat at least one healthy meal or some healthy snacks. It’s too easy to fall into unhealthy habits when we’re stressed or sitting at home. It’s not easy all the time, but try to incorporate good nutrients into each day. percent.
Drink lots of water. LOTS. I know everyone is joking about running to the liquor store. I get it. I like my wine. But really, try to drink a lot of water.
Stay connected with friends and family through facetime, phone calls, texts, etc. Try to check in with at least one person a day so you don’t feel isolated.
Limit social media and the news. Stay updated and informed but don’t fall into the abyss which can be mentally draining and take a toll on your mental health.
Also, consider setting limits each day on how much you read and check social media. Limiting screen time is good for us grown-ups, too. Check out this post on reducing Social Media engagement.
Move – get a bit of exercise. Go for a walk or run outdoors. If you can’t get outside, lots of fitness buffs are starting to stream workouts and there are also thousands of fitness videos on YouTube.
Check on those who are in the vulnerable population or need help. Can you deliver something and drop it outside their door? Run an errand? Just the act of checking on them will probably make them feel better.

Most of all…….Breathe and Stay Positive.

What things are you doing to stay grounded right now? Leave a comment and let me know!

Disclaimer: I am not a therapist or licensed mental health professional. If you are in need of professional help please contact your Health Care Provider.

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