It may feel like 2020 has been put on hold as we all find ourselves in strange and unprecedented times. With cases of Covid-19 growing and more restrictions being enforced, our mental wellbeing is likely to be impacted. On top of this, we now live in a world where we are bombarded with news alerts, social media posts and daily updates of statistics on the spread of the virus. Adjusting to a new normal way of life, away from family and friends can leave us feeling low and anxious. With this in mind, below are 4 strategies for you to use daily to look after your mental health during self isolation and remember; this situation, uncertainty and worry is all temporary and will pass.
1. BREATHE - when you feel anxious or overwhelmed your sympathetic nervous system kicks in and this can make you feel shaky, sweaty and short of breath. A simple and effective way to manage this is to focus on your breath. Try breathing in for 4, holding for 4 and breathing out for 6. Whilst you’re doing this repeat a powerful affirmation to yourself e.g. ‘anxiety might make me feel uncomfortable but I am in charge of my mind and body’.
2. OBSERVE - you have approximately 70,000 thoughts a day (!), these will include happy thoughts but they will also include anxious and negative thoughts. These thoughts are constantly being replaced, so next time when you’re having an unhelpful thought, rather than latching onto it and overthinking, imagine it as a floating cloud and let it pass you by.
3. MOVE - you may not be able to get to your favourite class or gym but it is still really important to get your body moving from either doing a home workout or going for a walk or run outside. Exercising gives you a rush of endorphins which helps to relieve feelings of stress and boosts your mood!
4. CONNECT - make an extra effort to stay in touch with family and friends during this time to help you feel connected with others. Seek comfort from others when you are having down days or anxious thoughts, it’s likely that they have felt the same and can offer you helpful reassurance or advice!
ABOUT LUCY
Lucy is an accredited Psychological Life Coach and previously worked in the NHS in psychology services. Lucy is a dedicated coach, who establishes warm, collaborative relationships with her clients and helps them to become masters of their mind. If you feel like you need extra 1:1 support during this time, please find more information about how to contact Lucy below:
Website: www.lucyspicer.com
Email: lucy@lucyspicer.com
