We are all living in the most uncertain time in history. The entire world has come to a grinding halt as we fight this invisible enemy, COVID19
Image Source: https://www.actionforhappiness.org
I always longed to work from home especially on days when I had to start at 7.15 am and go on till 5.30 pm. But, going through this 15-day social distancing and staying at home challenge, I really appreciate my routine, meeting my wonderful co-workers and patients . A routine brings about some structure to your working day , which we are so used to. Hence this working from home definitely creates chaos unless we keep things in order both physically and mentally.
Here are somethings that I am following right now to maintain sanity.
Set a routine
I love to wake up late on weekends and working from home definitely cuts my 30-minute commute which would allow me to stay in bed and pick up my phone and see latest updates on what’s happening with the pandemic around the world. I did that for a couple of days but quickly snapped out and decided to wake up, shower and have a healthy breakfast as if it were a normal day. This helps prevent unnecessary munching especially as my study is near the kitchen and pantry.
I avoid being in my pajamas and dress well as it gives me a feeling of being at work. This prevents me from feeling lazy and relax on the couch with the computer.
I sit in my office for all my telehealth sessions instead of the kitchen or the couch.
Stock up on healthy foods
Healthy eating is a choice and if you have healthy foods in your pantry, you won’t have the temptation to snack on junk foods. I have stocked up on nuts, seeds, popcorn, fruit and lots of vegetables. I avoided buying chips, cookies as it is always so easy to get tempted.
I also sit at the dining table and eat my meals instead eating in front of the TV as I can control the portions.
Filling a 40 oz bottle of water to sip on instead of consuming coffee or sodas.
Setting a regular time to eat
Avoid getting to engrossed in work that you skip meals
Exercise
Walking outside to get fresh air. My husband and I go for a long 3-mile walk in our hilly subdivision. We also started taking 3 lbs. dumbbells to help with some strength training as we walk. I absolutely love the fresh air and sunshine outdoor and also get some Vitamin D in the process.
If someone is not able to go out and walk for any reason, try climbing up and down the stairs.Keep your body in action.
Communication
This is the time when we need the support of our family and friends. Communicate with everyone. I normally talk to my family in India on my way to work. Now that I am at home, I often set up a video call and the gleam in my parents’ eyes makes it worth the while. When you are in touch with your loved ones, you forget all the gloom and doom around you. I have spoken to my friends as well with whom I had lost touch for some time. Get back in touch with all.
Pursue your hobbies
Remember that list of things that you would do someday when you had the time. Well that time is here. Go back to the things that make you happy. Maybe, it is time to take up cooking again. Go to that YouTube channel that will teach you how to make your favorite meal without stepping out. Pull out those paint brushes that are gathering dust in somewhere in the attic and start stroking them on the canvas. Read that book that you have been meaning to for so long.
Do the things that bring you happiness.
These are just some of the things that I am doing. What is it that you are doing during these days? I would love to hear from you. Please leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Stay healthy. Stay happy.
