We’ve all been feeling it – the eerie feeling on the street. The unknown of what’s to come. The anxiety creeps up on us when we visit the shops to grab a couple of groceries. It’s pretty alarming! However, we need to stay mindful of our mental health in these times. Because ultimately, it’s our attitude towards the Covid situation that will see us through. If you’re feeling the fear and unsure of how to deal with it, then take a moment to read this. It’s not medical advice* but it is some guidelines and ideas to help you through the uncertainty.
1. Fresh air, sunshine, movement and nutrition
There’s nothing stopping you from going for a walk in nature and enjoying some fresh air and sunshine (at the moment – and as long as you’re abiding by current social distancing laws). You’ll feel amazing afterwards! Plus the movement and the healthy snack you have after (a fresh fruit for example) will make you feel calm and in control. If walking isn’t your thing, then put on some music and have a dance or do a workout outside on the grass. Doing a home workout? Grab a towel and do it outside on the lawn! In regards to nutrition, nothing beats fresh food so whip up some veggies and chase it with a fruit and you’re good to go!
2. Water for your whole body
A rumour has been going around that sipping water can get rid of the virus. According to health professionals**, this isn’t true but in saying that, water is still extremely healthy! So keep drinking your 8 glasses of water per day and while you’re at it, have a nice soak in the bathtub with no social distractions to alleviate the stress!
3. Meditation and zoning out
Meditation is a fantastic way to zone out of the drama and check back in with yourself. Even just 5-10mins of guided meditation per day can do wonders for your mental health with or without global crisis. If meditation isn’t your thing then snuggle up with a book or a podcast! Here are some apps I would highly recommend:
- Guided meditations: Smiling Mind and Calm
- Music, podcasts and meditations: Spotify
- Free Audio Books (via your local library): Borrow Box
Give yourself a limit to how much info you take on in one day. Sometimes it’s too much and you’re allowed to switch off and get away from it.
4. Affirmations and positive vibes
With potentially a lot of free time on our hands coming up, why not use the time to get crafty! Pinterest has a heap of fun craft ideas and if you’re stuck at home with young children then check out @play_at_home_mummy for some inspiration. While you’re on Pinterest, search for a positive affirmation of your choice, save it and refer to it when you can. Here’s a couple from our Glow Dance Co Instagram page:
5. Check out our online options!
We’re determined in this current crisis, to not let our students feel the weight of the mental stress. So we are working tirelessly to deliver amazing online classes (including ‘live’ and prerecorded) and a bunch of fun at-home challenges that can be done with the whole family involved! The good ol’ saying, ‘Why be moody when you can shake your booty’ has never had more purpose! So jump up, reach out to us (or any other DES family member) and join us for some fun!
* If you are experiencing mental stress that is worrying you, then don’t hesitate to reach out to a health professional such as your GP or a support line such as BeyondBlue 1300 22 4636 or Lifeline 13 11 14
** Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-51735367
Stay informed via: https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert
