For nearly 16 months, the Covid-19 pandemic has penetrated our lives. We had to adapt to a new normal, socially distant from loved ones, and navigate what living in a global pandemic truly meant. At times, the world has felt quite scary and unpredictable, and as we have just begun to imagine what life post-pandemic looks like, the Covid numbers appear to be increasing once again. At denova Collaborative Healthcare, we know how important it is to take time for yourself amidst change, so this month we are sharing tips for finding a self-care routine during this seemingly new phase of the pandemic.
Facing New Stressors
Change can be daunting, causing new stressors that affect mental health. It is important to practice self-care and take time to check in with yourself during another era of change. According to a survey by Healio, 80% of Americans intend to regularly practice self-care after the Covid-19 pandemic, but as we enter a new phase of the pandemic, self-care is just as important. But what does this really mean?
Self-care is about taking time to do little things for yourself that help you to feel and perform your best. At the start of the pandemic, you may have practiced self-care rituals like taking walks outdoors or picking up a new hobby…little things that helped life feel normal again. As we transition into a new phase, self-care is taking on a new meaning.
With this evolving pandemic, there may be triggers that you have forgotten about. Maybe it is traffic going into work or increased social interaction. There are things that have been a non-issue in the last 16 months that are resurfacing now. Facing these can seem intimidating but taking time to practice self-care can help you feel centered and ready to take on the new normal that lies ahead.
Tips for self-care in a changed world
- Check in with yourself daily. Start your day by assessing what may be triggering your stressors. Then determine feasible coping mechanisms to help you work through the stress. Take small moments each day to reflect and show gratitude for the progress you have made.
- Be gentle with yourself. This transition will likely take time. Practice compassion, rather than criticism, and try not to compare your progress to those around you. Remind yourself that you have no control over what happens in the real world around you, but you can control how you respond. Be sure to find a pace that works best for you.
- Don’t be afraid to say no. Don’t put too much pressure on returning back to what life was like before the pandemic began, as it likely will never be the same again. There is no need to overburden or overwhelm yourself if the transition is too much to handle.
- Remember the basics. Eating, sleeping, and exercising are fundamental to your emotional and physical health. As you ease into your new schedules take time out of your day for the basic tasks that can significantly improve your emotional well-being. Investing time in yourself can set you up for success in the long run.
- Know when to seek professional help. For many, the pandemic has worsened pre-existing mental health conditions or created new ones. Don’t be afraid to seek help through a certified professional who can help you find effective solutions and self-care practices that will make the transition smoother for you.
New patients can call denova Collaborative Healthcare at 602-777-6337 for a free, 15-minute wellness consultation. You can also click here to make an appointment online. Remember, if you are experiencing a crisis, please call 911 immediately.
