3 Mins Read
Being in the middle of a global pandemic can be a worrisome, upsetting, lonely and even anxiety-inducing experience for many people. We may be feeling more down than usual, disconnected from others due to social distancing or perhaps just missing our everyday routines. During this time, it is important that we do take care of our mental well-being as well as our physical health. Here are some things that you can do to uplift your mood during the coronavirus pandemic.
1. Breathe
Remember to breathe – whether that is figuratively taking some time out from your work at home or consciously practicing breathwork exercises, you will feel more relaxed.
2. Take a break from the news
Stop constantly checking your phone for more updates on the coronavirus pandemic. It’s important to stay informed, but repeatedly becoming fixated on the latest news can be overwhelming.
3. Start growing an indoor plant
If you don’t have any houseplants, perhaps it’s time to get (indoor) gardening. Try growing a little plant and taking care of it.
4. Get cooking / baking
Cooking is the ultimate activity to do at home to help you unwind. There are loads of vegan-friendly and healthy meals and baking recipes on our page for you to try out. Find them here.
5. Reading
Grab your favourite book to read! Getting gripped in a storyline will no doubt help to take your mind off the pandemic situation.
6. Call a friend / family member
Pick up the phone and call a trusted friend or family member to chat. Try not to talk about the coronavirus, but talk about how life is going, and perhaps make plans for when the pandemic is over.
7. Donate supplies & help others
Helping other people and your community will make you feel better. If you are in the position to, try doing some of these things to help out.
8. Embroidery
Maybe it’s time to pick up a new creative hobby at home. Embroidery and other needlework is a great activity to start with.
9. Set up a group video-call
Miss hanging out with your friends? Set a time for all of you to join in for a group video call to talk, eat and spend some time together remotely.
10. Mindful walking
Go on a mindful walk outdoors, preferably in nature and far away from crowds. Enjoy the sun and fresh air.
11. Listen to peaceful music
Music can help calm us down and is good for the soul. Listen to some tunes to help you think positive thoughts.
12. Stretch
Staying at home for prolonged periods can make you feel physically stiff, which can affect your mood. Keep moving and stretch at home to feel better.
13. Sleep
Don’t forget to get a good night’s rest. It can make a big difference!
14. DIY face mask / body scrub
Treat your skin to a face mask. You can even make one at home with oatmeal and clay, or try mixing a body scrub with olive oil and coffee grounds.
15. Make a list of things you are grateful for
This will help you remember that there is a lot to be grateful for in life.
16. Light a candle
It helps to reduce stress and induce calm. Plus, your room will feel that much warmer.
17. Sing
Sing aloud – it’s been proven that singing makes us happier.
18. Do smiling exercises
Did you know changing our physical expression can affect our mood? Try smiling.
19. Watch a comedy
Watch a couple episodes (or binge-watch) your favourite comedy show, or find a hilarious movie to enjoy. Laughing always makes things better.
20. Eat some fruit
Fruit is nature’s medicine – we feel good when we eat good and healthy! Plums, for instance, are full of flavonoids, an antioxidant that is associated with lowering depression symptoms. Here are some other vegan mood-boosting foods.
21. Make a cup of peppermint tea
Peppermint tea can have a positive impact on our mood and memory, and help ease feelings of frustration, anxiety, and fatigue.
Read our earlier coverage of Covid-19 and tips on prevention here.
Lead image courtesy of Unsplash.
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