Taking time for yourself reduces stress

Photo by Alisa Anton on Unsplash

So we are all more or less sheltered in place. We may see our neighbors and keep a safe distance as we talk. This is a whole new existence for all of us, no matter who you are or what you do, this pandemic has touched you. Some more than others but everyone has changed their daily lives in a way we never have before.

Loss of a physical connection with others has an impact. Particularly if you live alone. So, in addition to connecting through social media and by phone, we need to take time to give ourselves some extra care. It is not something we usually think about, but try using lotion on the skin. Soaking and rubbing your feet and hands with lotion or oil is very nurturing. It also gives that stimulation of touch that we can not access now. Some self massage for the shoulders is also really helpful. 

Even when we aren’t living in uncertain times like these, we take very little time taking care of ourselves. If you have extra time now, take a few minutes to rub your feet before you go to bed at night. Maybe offer one to someone else sheltering in place with you, if you like.  Everyone is always in a better mood and sleeps better with a foot rub. You may find this is a practice you want to continue even after all this is over. 

There are many little ways we can treat ourselves to comfort and calm ourselves and stay healthy and strong. Drink water so you stay hydrated, eat fresh food when you can get it and find ways to exercise. There are a lot of free classes available out there. Most of us have had a love/hate relationship with technology but now it has turned out to be a lifeline for many of us. If you are not tech savvy now is the time to take a tutorial and try out some of the resources available out there.  Take care, be safe. Do yoga.

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