7 Ways To Ease Anxiety During Uncertain Times

Let’s be honest, it feels like we’re on an emotional roller coaster, doesn’t it? And, as the landscape of our days looks likely to change even more in the coming weeks or months, I wanted to check in and gently remind you that whatever you’re feeling is OK. Change is unsettling for us all. It ignites our fears and raises our anxiety levels.

But, as we journey through the weeks and months together, we need to do everything we can to keep our mental and physical health in balance so that we can keep ourselves and each other safe and well. 

With that in mind I’ve shared a few tips to ease anxiety during uncertain times - I hope they help… 

CREATE NEW ROUTINES
If you’re anything like me then your routines are the foundation of your days. But, all of a sudden nothing looks the same. The solution is simple. We have to give our days a new structure...think of it as a spring clean! So, if you’re working from home, get up at the usual time, dress in something that puts you in the right frame of mind (no PJ’s), have clear boundaries so that everyone in the house knows your working hours. You get the idea, right? Even a simple routine helps to create a little structure amid the chaos. 

STAY ACTIVE
It’s essential that we do this both mentally and physically to keep our spirits up and our health in good shape. It could even be a great time to start something new. Maybe you’ve always wanted to take a few yoga classes - pick up an online subscription or follow a free class on youtube. Get outside in the garden if you can, even 20 minutes can make the world of difference. Manage your mind by reading something inspirational, learn a new language, start a creative hobby or simply dust off those quiz based board games.     

MAKE A PLAN
When everything feels out of control, I make a plan. Nothing fancy, just a notebook, coloured pens and a few quiet hours. You could plan your next home project or a business idea that you’ve been thinking about for years. Maybe even create a new pinterest board for your plan...pop together inspirational pieces and images that you can continue to add to over the coming weeks.        
 

SLEEP WELL
Getting quality sleep helps to boost our immune system and so don’t need an excuse to take a afternoon nap anymore - it’s essential, right? Try going to bed an hour earlier, reducing blue light in the evenings and creating a bedtime routine that helps to calm your mind before sleep. And, if you get the chance an afternoon nap is always a good idea.  

START THE SPRING CLEAN 
Oh yes! I’ve already started this one. Cleaning and decluttering brings some sense of control back to my days and so when anything is off balance...I declutter something! You know there’s that part of the house that you’ve been meaning to tackle for months? Well, now’s the time to get it done. And, don’t forget to get the kids involved! Of course there’s the added bonus of being able to clean as you go, to be sure that everything is as hygienic as possible.

CATCH UP WITH OLD FRIENDS 
Thanks to technology, social distancing doesn’t mean that we have to be alone or lose touch with those we love. Organise a time when you can get together just as you would if you were planning to go to lunch - you’ll just be sharing virtual hugs and don’t forget that wine is still included!     

ENJOY TIME FOR SELF CARE 
In amongst the chaos of the coming weeks and months, there’s an opportunity to be still. To find time for those things that you’ve been putting off for a while. Self care is often one of those things and so if you have a little extra time on your hands right now ask yourself how you could ugrade or get started on a wellness routine.  

Above all else, as we travel this path together it’s important to step back from the media noise and pause; to reconnect and to feel gratitude for the small things that we can control and for the people who are providing those front line services that will keep us safe and well.  

AUTHOR: LEANNA DOOLIN

Co – Founder of holistic skincare brand, Pure Thoughts and advocate for women finding pause in their day to breathe deeply, give thanks and reconnect to what matters. Loves early mornings, dogs and books that you can’t put down.


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