5 Tips to Protect your Mental Wellness During Quarantine

Create Structure

Having a daily routine benefits our mental wellness by giving us a sense of control, and easing our stress and anxiety levels. We all know it’s a bit more difficult to create structure while we’re confined to our homes, but your daily routine can be extremely simple. Keep up with a morning routine to set the tone for the day, schedule FaceTime calls with girlfriends and family, plan daily workouts, set time aside for family dinner time, etc. 

My morning routine has slowed down quite a bit from the hectic workday and commuting grind. I wake up between 6-6:30am, go downstairs to grab coffee (fresh pot brewed and waiting for me from setting the timer the night before) and froth with vanilla oat creamer, and cozy up on the couch in my loft for a little peace and quiet until our baby girl wakes up. Presley’s usually awake by 7am, and we play for a bit before heading to the kitchen for breakfast. Then, weather permitting, I change into workout clothes and load Presley up in her Bob stroller to get outside for a 3 mile run around our neighborhood. By the time we get back, it’s about 8:30am and I can begin my work day from home. When Austin’s home from work, it’s super helpful to be able to rotate taking care of Presley so that we can each accomplish something with our day. And let’s be real - we THRIVE during her 2 hour morning nap. It’s our power hour(s) to get as much done as we possibly can. Before we know it, it’s lunch time. (Never have I ever washed so many dishes, pots and pans in my life.) Then, more work, play in the backyard, FaceTime with friends and family, dinner time, and put Presley to bed. Austin and I have been on a movie kick lately so we’ll usually watch one before calling it a night and doing it all again the next day.

Practice Gratitude

Spend each morning (or evening) with a gratitude practice. This can look like… dedicated time for a bible study, prayer, meditation, or journaling. Grab your mug of coffee, relax on the couch and give yourself this quiet time before turning on the T.V. or scrolling your phone. If you have kiddos, wake up 15 minutes earlier. This practice will help you feel more grounded, centered and optimistic. 

I’ve been craving a new bible study, and since we can’t get together in person I’m thinking a virtual one may be in order?

Change Out of Your Jammies

Don’t roll your eyes just yet… you can change straight into your cute tie dye lounge wear. “Getting dressed” for the day is an instant mood booster. For some, that may look like yoga pants and a t-shirt, while others may feel more productive with lips and lashes done too… you do you girl! And now you can check that off your very important to-do list for the day.

I’ve been living in a mixture of workout and casual “real” clothes. All of this awkward time at home kind of reminds me of my maternity leave. I made myself get dressed for the day to feel more put together. It surprisingly helped me to feel productive, even if I never really did anything at all.

I’m also proud to say i’ve mastered my quarantine “get ready” look in about 15 minutes. This miiight have to be something I bring with me back to the real world.

Limit News Consumption

The media can be a very discouraging and negative space when all they are currently reporting on is Coronavirus this and Coronavirus that. Stay informed but be mindful of how you’re spending your time and what content your consuming. Protect your mental and emotional health.

Austin and I will put the news on in the morning as we sip our coffee and play with Presley. Then it’s either music, or cartoons during the day and a movie at night.

Self Care

Ahhh the buzzword, self-care. Make a daily habit to move and stretchhhh your body. Hello Youtube yoga videos! Make a daily habit to get outside for fresh air and sunshine (if your weather allows). Never underestimate the power of a long walk. We all want to give our families our 100% but we simply can’t do that if we’re running on 10%. Take care of yourself first so that you can show up for your loved ones. Plus, getting outside breaks up the day AND will help you sleep better at night.

As I mentioned above, I try my best to go for a run or long walk every single day. That simple task makes me feel like MY BEST SELF. It truly makes me a happier, more grateful, peaceful person. What’s the ONE thing you could do daily to feel like your best self?

Did we miss something that should be included on this list? Comment below or email us at hello@itspeachy.co!