I have to admit, when I first learned of COVID-19, I thought that it would quickly blow over. My initial perception of COVID-19 brought me back to 2009, when Swine Flu was the biggest flu pandemic I’ve ever encountered. Well, that changed rather quickly.

The harsh reality of COVID-19 escalated into horrid behaviors of people hoarding grocery and household items, people failing to follow government protocol of self-isolation, and people flooding hospitals taking necessary supplies that healthcare providers desperately need to keep themselves safe.

What has this world turned into? – a thought that I had asked myself while all of this was happening at once. I felt embarrassed and ashamed of those who selfishly hoarded essential items, while the elderly struggled to check one item off of their list. You would think that in a time like this, people would come together rather than lack empathy for those around us in need. I felt scared and lost sleep over the thought that my fiance could potentially come in contact with COVID-19, as he and many others serve on the front-lines in healthcare. I felt sick to my stomach to hear about jobs of friends and family members resulting in layoffs due to the economical impact of COVID-19. I’m struggling to find the light at the end of the tunnel. I realize that I need to shift my focus, and find ways to stay calm and centered.

I try to embrace a positive, optimistic outlook even during the most uncertain times. This mechanism that I’ve habituated allows me to calm my nerves and anxiety; but in this current situation, it’s hard to embrace. There is no doubt that the panic, confusion, and uncertainty causes a negative impact that affects us all universally. If you haven’t read my previous blog post, “Embracing the Challenge of Change,” you might want to check it out. I found it extremely helpful to re-read that post, because it resonates stronger now than ever before. I choose to not immerse myself with news and media, because I find that limiting the content alleviates my anxiety. Instead, I’m practicing gratitude by taking a shift from the anxiety-ridden, panic-mode, and starting to focus on things I can control. I wanted to share little acts of kindness that help to stay calm and positive during this time:

Make time to call, FaceTime or Skype friends and family: I know that some of us may prefer texting as our main point of contact; however, during a time of isolation and social distancing, it may be comforting to hear the voice of a family member or loved ones. Take the time to call or FaceTime your parents, grandparents, other relatives, and friends. Schedule a day/time where you can all have dinner together (virtually of course), and take advantage of the opportunity to converse vocally or virtually. I have been doing this, and I can admit that phone calls and FaceTime have definitely lifted my spirits amidst the chaos that we’re surrounded by.

Bake, Cook and get creative in the kitchen: Since we have a lot of time on our hands, it can be fun to bake or cook something that we normally wouldn’t have the time for. Find a cookbook, or recipes online (AHEM – I have some great recipes right here on the blog, just sayin’)! If you have roommates, or live with your significant other, this would be a great opportunity to try a meal service kit – or if you’re looking to save money, write down dinner ideas in a bowl and have someone pick a dinner to cook each night. Make sure to keep this fun and interactive by cooking together. I can’t stress enough that while we may become sick of one another in quarantine, we need to gain perspective on how grateful we should be that we can spend time together to cook a meal.

Get crafty, color, or put together a puzzle: If you have a project that you had to put on hold because you didn’t have time…now is the time to do so! I’ve been working on signage for our wedding using a calligraphy book that I bought on Amazon, wood signs, chalk paint and chalk markers. It has been relaxing and therapeutic to devote time to a craft, especially something that eases my mind from the current state of the world. Adult coloring books, and puzzles are also great to incorporate during this time. Creating or putting together something is not only an accomplishment to be proud of, but staying productive will allow you to focus and shift your energy on something positive.

Do something good: It’s no surprise that businesses, especially small businesses, are negatively impacted by COVID-19. There are many ways to help out small businesses that you visited on a frequent basis prior to the pandemic. Look into donating, purchasing gift cards, and sharing content on social media to help spread the word. Many pizza restaurants are selling bake kits for customers to make their own pizzas, and we all know that pizza can lift our spirits! If you’re an animal lover like me, check local shelter/rescue websites/social media to find ways to help or volunteer. Many shelters/rescues are sharing a lot of content online, including virtual meet and greets, options to foster/adopt, etc. A simple gesture of sharing a post could make all of the difference in helping animals find their furever homes! Friends, please take part in checking in on the businesses/organizations that we love and care about. Be mindful of how this is impacting their lives, and offer help and assistance.

Listen to an Audiobook or podcast: I can attest that listening to Audiobooks and podcasts allows me to stop the cluttering of fears and uncertainty that surround my mind. It’s also a nice option to consider if you’re working from home, or if you’re home alone – just the sound of someone’s voice will help reduce loneliness. Focus on topics that are motivating, inspiring, or thought-provoking while you’re being productive. Choose a particular genre that interests you while you’re doing work, chores, taking a walk, etc. Which leads us to the next topic…

Take breaks when necessary: I can’t stress this enough for people who are working from home. Take some time to go outside, exercise (a lot of gyms are sharing free exercise classes), ride a bike, walk your dog, incorporate stretches, etc. Taking a break will allow you to regain focus when you’re feeling fatigued. We all need some vitamin D in our lives!

Create a relaxing home workspace: If your workspace is cluttered and messy, then your headspace will reflect the visuals surrounding you. Incorporate items in your home that promote a sense of calm and relaxation. Use candles or a diffuser with essential oils, place pictures near your laptop of loved ones, change your background screen to a place or theme that holds significance, or find artwork online that showcases inspirational messages to use as a workday mantra. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water, take supplements, and continue to practice good hygiene! Even while in quarantine within our own homes, it is imperative to keep our surroundings clean to prevent the spread of germs.

Give attention to pets, children, family members, significant others, or anyone you are currently quarantined with: The perspective of children and emotional intuition of animals is just as significant as our own. If you have children, set aside time to play and do activities together. Even if it becomes stressful to occupy their time, be mindful that the pandemic is affecting them differently than our reality as adults. If you’re quarantined with your parents and family members, take this time to interact together. Ask your parents questions about how life was like for them growing up. Take the time to learn more about your family members, and engage in conversations that are meaningful. There could be admirable qualities about your family members that you did not know of; and showing them that you care enough to take the time to learn more about them will mean more to them than you’ll ever know. We may look back on this time and see the positive message being that we were able to spend quality time with our loved ones. We will realize how impactful that time truly was for us.

Meditate, journal, utilize apps that alleviate anxiety: We’re constantly being reminded to practice good hygiene, but we don’t hear enough about practices to promote our well-being. Remember how I mentioned practicing gratitude? This is my way of meditating: If I find myself stuck, stressed, or anxious, I begin to internalize thoughts of gratitude. I remind myself of the positives in my life, what I am thankful for, and what keeps me going. If meditating or journaling isn’t your thing, that’s okay! Try listening to calming apps that will help you stay centered. I also practice rhythmic breathing exercises if I feel that I am overwhelmed. Remember, our mental and emotional health is just as important as our physical health.

Last but not least, tell someone that you love them: Stop what you’re doing, pick up the phone, and tell someone that you love them. Let them know that you’re here for them, because we’re all in this together. I’m hopeful that we can all come together after all of this and be stronger than ever. Stay strong, stay safe, stay healthy and be well.