Self-isolation : Tips for a calm time

[vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px”][vc_column_text]As I write this, I know that things around us are constantly changing. And by the time that I finish, things will be different again. It’s been a crazy week with the unraveling of Covid-19, and what is still to come over the next few weeks, and months, is unknown. But one thing is certain, we’re going to be spending a lot more time at home. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row padding_top=”0px” padding_bottom=”0px”][vc_column fade_animation_offset=”45px”][vc_column_text]Whether you’re starting to work from home or taking some time off to quarantine or isolate, we’re all having to adapt to a new routine and a new type of lifestyle. Just as viruses are passed from person to person, so do emotional states, like fear. It’s important to not let negative emotions, like fear or anger, dictate how we spend our self-isolation. We can use this time well and not treat it like suffering. Come on, let’s make the most of this. 

Maintaining a structure throughout your day is essential for keeping up energy and momentum – and will keep getting you out of bed every morning! 

Start with a good morning ritual

Wake up, get out of bed, and make use of your newly acquired extra morning time! Now that you don’t need to travel to the office, you have an extra hour or two to spend on meditation, self massage or yoga practice, first thing before breakfast. 

Enjoy your breakfast without distraction. Don’t look at your phone or the news – I mean, haven’t you already seen enough? Listen to some pleasant music or an engaging podcast (have you had a listen to mine yet?), something that gives you a sense of calm or joy. 

Set yourself a work timer

It’s a good idea to plan out your work day at home in modules of time, otherwise you can easily blur the lines, and delay your start time or work into overtime. Decide on a structure and then set yourself to work for 2 or 3 hours at a time. Allocate some space in between these work modules to prepare a healthy and supportive lunch, then continue with your structure and get back to work!

Allow more time for cooking meals

Whether it’s your morning fuel or your lunchtime intermission, there’s no reason now why you can’t spend some more time thinking about and preparing your meals. Putting in some extra effort to really listen to what your body wants and needs, will keep you feeling better in the long run. 

Stop and slow down

Spending so much time at home, and maybe even in the same room, can confuse your work-time with your down-time. It’s important to remember to still stop each day and slow down. If you’re not meditating in the morning, take some time later in the day. It will help to increase your energy and bring more positive structure into your day. Meditate with your friends online or seek out guided meditations. Join our community #washyourhandsandmeditate everyday at 5pm. Meditating with others is a nice way to stay supported and connected, especially at a time like this, and to give back more positive energy into the world. 

Connect with people

So far, in this strange long trip, we have already witnessed a big move in how humans are connecting with each other. People are coming together on social media, chatting through video calls or, as we’ve seen in Italy, singing with each other from their balconies. Take time in your afternoon or evening to connect with your friends and family. Chat, video call, play games, send virtual hugs. It’s important to stay in touch and not become completely ‘isolated’. 

Limit news

Only give yourself a handful of allocated time to read the news and find out any updates you need to know about the Coronavirus in your area. In times of crises, our vata is aggravated, so make sure you don’t exhaust yourself with too much worry and stress. It’s possible to still stay informed but calm. This also goes for your body, and avoiding cold, heavy foods that might stress your body. Instead, go for simple and light meals. And come back to your hot water bottle when you need it, for that extra shot of comfort.

So how is it all going so far? Can you identify any of these rituals in your current routine? There are plenty more support groups and materials for creating a Conscious Home Office, or as Tara Brach calls it, a Home Retreat. 

If you think your routine needs a bit of work, I can help, beyond these tips and suggestions.

Book in with me for a free online coffee chat  and we can talk about setting up the right routine for you.

Take care and hope to see you around.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]