The reality of COVID-19 has changed the way we live, work, and interact with each other. So many of us are experiencing an entirely new way of being as we adjust to completing our daily routines at home. But that doesn’t mean we have to forgo the practices that preserve our happiness, productivity, or sanity. In fact, we need them now more than ever.
Many of us have fantasized about working from home or skipping social obligations to spend the night in, but the reality isn’t always as wonderful as we imagined. From blurred boundaries between work and personal life to reduced social contact, we’re all facing new challenges during a time already full of uncertainty. If you’re feeling anxious about the prospect of staying in, there are steps you can take to feel more comfortable. As is often the case, a bit of preparation, some well-placed structure, and small acts of joy are key.
We’re all in new territory, unsure of how events will unfold, but we can try to make the most of whatever challenges we’re handed. In that spirit, we’ve put together a list of practices that help to keep us feeling our best, even when we’re home-bound.
Prepare and freeze meals you love
Before you resign yourself to a menu of canned goods, consider using this time to prep some homecooked meals, making plenty of extra to store in your freezer. Take on that recipe you’ve always wanted to master, try an online cooking class, or resurface a favorite comforting classic. We’ll be making a big batch of Kathryn Budig’s Lentil Bolognese as well as her Cherry Chocolate Coconut Flour Muffins.
Reach out
Social distancing doesn’t have to mean isolation. In fact, our bonds help us stay positive and reduce stress. Check in regularly with your loved ones through phone calls and video chats, and swap your favorite online classes, music playlists, and TV shows. An online community can help you feel supported while you’re working and socializing remotely. Join the Glo Community to talk with Glo members around the world about how they’re attending to their well-being at home.
Don’t stay in your pj’s all day
To avoid planting yourself squarely in a rut, do your best to stick to a routine. That means waking up, getting dressed, having breakfast, and otherwise signaling that it’s time to start your workday. Schedule breaks throughout your day and try to get some fresh air if you’re able. A walk around the block is a fantastic way to refresh. Just as you did in the morning, find a clear way to transition out of work mode at the end of your day. We love this 5-minute online meditation with Gopi Kallayil.
Create a dedicated workspace
It might be tempting to work from bed, but that can quickly sap your productivity and mood. Creating a clear physical boundary between your work life and home life can help you stay present for each at the right time. Do your stress levels a favor by keeping it tidy and making sure you have adequate spinal support. We also suggest integrating this five-minute desk practice with Jason Crandell for a happy back and eased mind.
Keep up your workouts
Moving your body is a great way to release stress and there are plenty of workouts you can do from home. Plus, with commuting out of the picture, you’ve probably gained a little extra time. Make getting physical part of your daily routine, whether you’re craving gentle stretching or an all-out sweat. For those of you who worry you can’t be challenged outside of the gym, we suggest our Sweat Sessions or Fusion Fitness class collections.
Get creative
Stay stimulated and inspired by getting in touch with your creative side. From drawing and cooking to writing and collage, this is the time to finally take up that art or craft you’ve wanted to try. There are abundant online how-to videos or just go ahead and improvise—it’s all about the process, not a perfect outcome. If you’re feeling doubtful that there’s an artist within you, give Elena Brower’s inspiring talk on the therapeutic benefits of journaling a try.
REST
Bask in the permission to do nothing! See this mandatory time out as a chance to replenish by indulging in the rest we so often deny ourselves. Whatever was off-limits before, be it a TV marathon, an afternoon nap, or a deliciously long savasana set to your favorite music—take it without a moment’s hesitation and make it truly over the top. If you’re so out of practice that you don’t know where to start, consider our Nearly Napping class collection your crash course on rest.
