Humans are meant to be with one another. Research shows that connection is one of the big drivers of happiness. So what do you do when you are social isolating to maintain a big of sanity? I have compiled a list of things you can do to help promote positive mental health even while staying in.
Read a Book
Take this extra time in as a time to read for enjoyment or read to be able to learn something new. This can be a great time to choose to grow you mind. How often do we just get so busy that we don’t have time to read? Well look at that, now you do!
Journal
It can be hard to simply be with ourselves. Look at this time as a time you get to spend quality time with the most important person in your life, yourself! Slow down, check in, see how you are doing. Write about it.
Meditate
Studies have shown that often humans would choose to receive an electric shock rather than sit with themselves and their thoughts. Sitting with yourself is a skill. This may be a great time to develop that skill and muscle. And this is a skill that be extremely valuable even when it is time to begin socializing again.
Call a Friend or Family member
As mentioned before, we are not meant to live life alone. Community matters. Get creative in finding ways to connect with people even when you can not be with them. Maybe you give them a call, hang out via facetime, send them a thoughtful text, or write them a letter.
Do something creative
Let your creative juices flow! Take some time to write, draw, paint, color, build, knit, or whittle! Don’t know how to whittle? Now may just be the time to learn!
Go for a walk
The days are starting to get longer and the temperatures are starting to warm up, you don’t have to be stuck inside. Sometimes social distancing and the lack of being able to go out and about can make it feel like we are living in a perpetual snow storm, but the great news is that we are not! Get outside, soak up some sunshine, and go for a walk.
Do some yoga
A number of yoga studios are beginning to figure out ways to offer classes online. Bring some mindful movements to your body by finding an online class. There is also a great yoga app, Downward Dog that is also a great resource.
Find Speical Offerings Online
Some museums are offering online virtual tours and the Metropolian Opera (https://www.metopera.org) is offering online opera. What a great way to still find some culture even while being at home!
Find a Telehealth Therapist
If you want to have some additional support during this crazy time, find a therapist who offers online sessions. Or if you simply want to truly spend your extra time doing that internal work of learning about yourself, sitting with yourself and choosing to grow. How cool that you can get that professional support from the comfort of your own home! With your therapist you can set goals and actively work to accomplish them, how great to have growth and movement even while physically being still.
Charlotte Therapist
Theresa Leskowat MS LCMHC is owner of Clear Vista Counseling in Dilworth area of Charlotte, NC. Theresa also offers online therapy. Theresa specializes in treating anxiety, managing stress, managing perfectionism, treating depression, as well as therapy for trauma and PTSD.