Self-care during a pandemic

 Mary Lane, Staff Writer   

Finding ways to take care of yourself during a pandemic feels impossible sometimes; it's easy to feel like the world is falling apart in front of us. If you are reading this, though, that means you made it through the last 8 months, and that is so important. Some days it’s hard to realize what’s most important-your homework, chores, or job-but it’s you. How can you do anything you need to do if you haven’t taken care of yourself first? I’ve gathered some little things and some big things that are important for you to stay healthy and keep you in a good headspace during these hard times. They are not in any particular order and just doing one of these things a day can help keep you going. Stay healthy and most importantly stay safe!

• Drink water
• Spend some time processing your thoughts, don’t rush things that don’t need to be rushed
• Make a to-do list to stay focused and organized
• Create a routine (it doesn’t have to take up the entire day)
• take a break and a breath to re-center yourself when you're overwhelmed
• Eat 3 meals a day
• Listen to podcasts/music or watch inspirational videos (I can recommend some if you need)
• Don’t look at your phone right away when you wake up unless you need to
• Take a social media break
• Write anything you want and do a brain dump-just get it out!
• Do yoga and/or meditation, even if it's just for 5 minutes
• Call a friend and make plans if you need to get out of the house (wear a mask!)
• Get caught up on sleep/ go to sleep at a reasonable time
• Make your favorite tea or coffee
• Be kind to yourself

Even if you can just do one of these things, be proud of yourself; you’re alive and here-look after yourself!