Ways to Alleviate Stress While in Quarantine

We're all separate but together during this crazy time, so it is important to talk about and explore ways that may help some decrease their stress levels and maybe learn a new skills while they're at it. Here are some ways that help some get through these days:

1) Go outside

I am sure many of you have noticed a lot more day walkers in your neighborhood. Being quarantined does not mean you can't be quarantined outside, 6 feet away from everyone else, of course. I live in Michigan, so taking advantage of the nice days is a good way to take some deep breaths of fresh air and release some of your tension. Also, seeing something other than your house walls is a good change of scenery.

2) Limit the amount of news you watch

I wish my mom would take this bit of advice. It is important to stay updated with the current situation of global health, but there is a point at which the news is harming you rather than leading to knowledge and insight. News sources often rely on stress, panic, and negative emotions to cause people to watch more, so causing these emotions can help them get more views and clicks. Stay updated, but avoid letting the negativity consume you by leaving the TV on at all times.

3) Find some positive news!

A friend of mine recently introduced me to a YouTube series by John Krasinski, the actor that played Jim Halpert in the show the Office. The channel on YouTube is called "Some Good News" and he talks about the positive stories coming out of all of the negativity caused by the pandemic. You can find the videos by clicking here!

4) Clean

This may not be for everyone, but keeping your room and/or house clean can alleviate a lot of stress and make you feel productive. Along with being productive in itself, getting up and doing the simple task of just making your bed can lead you to wanting to do more.

5) Get messy

As the devil on number 4's shoulder, doing messy crafts can be a good way to let loose and take advantage of all the time you now have to clean it up. Some examples could be baking and painting. I have been planning on baking a loaf of bread for a while, and I think I will get to it eventually.

6) Fight the guilt!

I have seen a lot of people feeling the same way that I do. We have a lot of free time, and there's a fight between taking advantage of the time with productivity or laying down and doing nothing. When I am laying down, I feel guilty for not being productive, but when I am being productive, I feel guilty for not resting while I can. If you are feeling like this, try to be more aware of it. Take this time to find a balance and to fight the constant guilt for how you spend your time. Take this time to be introspective and search for the root of your stress, if you do not already know. Take this time to make your life MORE enjoyable, instead of just waiting for the time to pass.

You can try the options listed above, or you can come up with your own. Right now, stress and anxiety is a lot of peoples' biggest enemies, so try to find what works best for you to fight it. Please, reach out to friends, family, or professionals if you need help.