First and foremost, I want to preface this blog post with the acknowledgement that everyone is handling what is going on differently.
I have a history with mental illness. I’ve suffered from depression and anxiety.
One of the main ways that I’ve dealt with those issues in recent years was working out, mostly lifting weights. And being around people. And these are two things that I can’t do right now.
Another way they I’ve tried to deal with those issues is by doing things that bring me joy. When thinking about things that bring me joy, I realize that a lot of those things are things I can’t do now, like hiking and kayaking.
And the fact that I’ve not been able to do any of these things has left me feeling continually defeated and like there was no end to this feeling in sight.
And it sucks.
But, if there’s one thing that I am, it’s persistent. Or stubborn, depending on who you’re talking to. And I know that the only way out of this situation is through it.
In the past few weeks I have started doing three different things that I believe are helping me a lot.
The first: I make a list of goals for the week. Currently those goals are focused around working out, journaling, and socializing via video chat.
These goals are all ones that are easily achievable but still take little effort in my part.
The second: I have been more stringent on my work/life balance. Before my office was located in my living room and it was easy to work a little late and not feel much about it. And when I first started working from home, often times I would log back on for a little bit after I was technically off.
But I realized that was creating more stress for myself.
So now I stick to my normal hours and take my breaks.
The third: I make sure to spend at least 20 minutes in the sun a day. Sometimes this may be accomplished by laying on my floor in a sports bra and shorts in the sun patch, but it’s accomplished.
Being outside is something I love. Sadly I don’t have a patio or porch. But I do have a pretty large window for the days that I can’t make it outside and I do live in a complex that I can walk around in.
Right now, people are just trying to find a balance and a way to stay sane and healthly during this time.
And these are a few of the things that have helped me.
