10 Tips for Practicing Self-Care in Quarantine

Image source: Female Founders Fund

As the coronavirus outbreak continues to spread, the impact of the pandemic can be felt across the globe. We are facing a time of fear, uneasiness, and uncertainty individually and in our communities. While this is naturally a worrying time, there are many things we can do to stay mentally healthy and grounded while socially distancing. We hope you find the following tips helpful and reassuring as you navigate your way through this time of global crisis. 

Exercise.

As you probably already know, exercise is a great way to boost endorphins and clear your mind. There’s an entire universe of free yoga classes on YouTube (we love the uber-popular channel Yoga with Adrienne) and some fitness instructors are live-streaming their classes from home. If you’re not in actual quarantine, go for a walk, run, or bike ride outside, while keeping your distance from others.

Meditate.

Meditation can help you relax your body and brain during this stressful time. The New York Times has a helpful guide on how to start!

Limit your time online.

When news about the pandemic is all over TV, social media, and the Internet, it can be hard to distance yourself from constant updates. But we encourage you to take a break from the noise of the virus, as it could make you even more anxious about what’s going on in the world. While it’s important to stay informed about what’s going on in your state, it’s good to take an occasional break. Turn off the television, close out of your social media and news apps, and enjoy the silence. 

Embrace a hobby.

Partake in a hobby that you really do just for fun. Don’t be tempted to show it off on Instagram or turn it into a side-hustle -- just do it for your own enjoyment. Doing something with your hands is a great way to cope with stress: Crocheting, beading, embroidery, woodworking, and baking can all provide a much-needed release. Looking for inspiration? There’s a nearly unlimited number of online classes on websites like edX or Skillshare, whether you want to learn coding or needlepoint. 

Journal.

Scientists agree that journaling can be very effective in times like these when many of our daily rhythms and routines have morphed into realities that, even two weeks ago, would have looked unrecognizable. To reduce stress and anxiety, consider taking the time to write about your experiences, thoughts, and feelings every day. There isn't one way to journal, and any form can help you clear your mind and organize your thoughts, from prayer journals to bullet journals.

Read.

No matter what’s going on in the world, a good book can provide insight, comfort, or a welcome escape. If you are seeking entertainment while staying home, now may be the time to finally dig into that epic novel you’ve had on your shelf forever, revisit an old favorite, or try something out of your reading comfort zone.

If you’re seeking connection, reading doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. Consider reading out loud with a partner, or start a virtual book club with friends using FaceTime, Skype, or Zoom.

Cook and bake.

Take a cue from Quartz’s food reporter Chase Purdy, who writes: “For many, cooking at home is intimidating -- and nobody wants a recipe to go wrong when they’re already managing the stress of the world beyond their front doors. But instead of being an added source of stress, in a time of self-imposed isolation, cooking can be an act of self-care.” Nourish your body with a healthy recipe -- we love Alison Roman’s down-to-earth recipes (and witty writing) in her New York Times Cooking column.

Declutter.

Quarantine is a great time to organize the drawer that has been begging for order, rearrange your living room furniture, or finally get your filing cabinet in order. A refreshed space can help you feel lighter and provide stress relief.

Remember that you’re not alone.

These tips are all about self-care, but humans generally need community to be happy. Write your grandparents a letter, get on a Google hangout with your co-workers, and FaceTime with your friends. Also: if you’re still able to go outside, consider helping a neighbor in need of a grocery delivery.

But don’t feel pressure to be productive.

The message to use your quarantine time productively is everywhere — on blog posts, on social media, in emails from coworkers and loved ones alike. You may have already seen the viral tweets about how famous artists innovated during quarantines, like when Shakespeare wrote “King Lear” when theaters were shuttered for plague or when Isaac Newton created calculus while social distancing. These stories are intended to reassure and motivate, but they carry an inherent judgement: You could be making the most of your time by exercising more, expanding your cooking repertoire, or starting a new side hustle.

There is a tendency in American culture and within capitalism to be self-critical, as opposed to being self-compassionate. It’s important to remember not to feel guilty if you don’t feel like “getting things done.” It’s okay not to be productive during a pandemic.