How I’m Social Distancing Without Losing My Mind

So pretty much everyone at the present moment is having to deal with social distancing in some form. Coronavirus is making its way around the world and disrupting life in ways we never imagined. The modern world hasn’t dealt with a virus of this magnitude, so we’re all scrambling to adjust to this new (and hopefully temporary) norm.

This post isn’t meant to tell you how you should or shouldn’t be doing something: like a lecture on how to wash your hands or basic personal hygiene (there are enough posts about that). I just wanted to share how we are handling it in our little household and keep up the spirit of solidarity with others.

Working from Home

We’re going on week five of social distancing in our home. My office decided pretty early on to move the entire company to remote working as soon as possible. Our industry allows for it, which I am very grateful.

It’s been a little bit of an adjustment with regards to setting up my workspace, dealing with seemingly neverending video conferencing and in general, staying both focused and creative. Thankfully, I’ve gotten into a good flow and my team does a fantastic job communicating, which is key with us all being remote.

Distance Learning

My two girls, ages 11 and 14 are finally going to start some structured distance learning with their schools. For the first few weeks I had them set up on somewhat of a schedule which I jokingly referred to as “School of Mom”.

I broke up the day in chunks that included academic time, creative time and free time. It’s gone pretty well, but we’ve all been anxious to have a bit more guidance from their schools. While we waited we checked out educational resources from sites like Scholastic and KidsActivities.com which has compiled a huge list of free educational resources.

Increasing Self Care

This is one area that I have really invested more time and energy into. Now that I no longer have to spend the time commuting to the office, I have no excuse not to fit in more self-care. Here are the ways I am taking better care of myself in the present.

Consistent Exercise
I have been working out almost every day. It feels great to be able to really dedicate some time to consistent exercise. I go on runs and walks, do online yoga sessions and have recently gotten back into some Crossfit WODs.

Not only am I feeling stronger and happier with my physical self, getting consistent exercise is doing wonders for my mental and emotional wellbeing as well. One online resource I have been using regularly is Active by POPSUGAR which is currently free.

If you’re struggling to figure out what might be the right workout mix for you, check out my post on exactly that How to Find Your Fitness Groove

Personal Care
This is another area where I have really slowed down to really give myself some extra needed attention. Bring out all the lotions and potions, face masks, and body scrubs. Taking the time to care for your body will lead to nourishment for your soul as well.

I’ve been pulling out all sorts of body care products that I’ve been accumulating over time and now I’m indulging in all of them. One beauty company that I highly recommend is the Hawaii brand Malie. If you truly want to pamper yourself, they are the perfect choice.

Eating Well
This is an area that I am definitely still working on. It’s easy to indulge in not so healthy eating and drinking habits during this time. In general, I am trying to keep things simple: lots of whole foods and keeping super hydrated.

I’ve been making a lot of smoothies and just listening to my body. I’m also working on expanding the usual recipes I make, trying new things now that I have a little more time to do so. Maybe now is the time to try out one of those cleanses you’ve always wanted to do? I tried one from Beaming which was quite the adventure. Check it out in my post here.

Slowing Down

Unless you are an emergency or front line worker (Many, many, many thanks to all of you!!!) you are most likely being forced to slow down during this time of social-distancing. We’re all spending much more time (if not all of it) at home and I’d be lying if I didn’t say I’ve had my own moments of feeling a bit stir crazy.

I do however think that we could all use a little slowing down. One way I’m taking advantage of the slow down is to catch up on some reading. I didn’t realize how much I’ve missed regular reading sessions and the escape it provides has been great.

Keeping Optimistic

It can be a challenge to remain optimistic during this time but just like exercise, I believe you can coach yourself to snap out of negative moods. Pay attention to how you’re feeling and when you feel yourself heading to a more negative place, see if you can take a breather and get yourself out of that space.

Maybe it’s lifting some weights or taking a solo walk, soaking in the tub or revisiting a favorite movie or book. Find your own sancuary and escape to it for a little while. And remember, that you are not alone in these kind of feelings.

So there you go. A few ways that I am handling social distancing without losing my mind. I’d love to hear how you are handling life these days. Any tips or personal insight to share? Please share in the comments below.

Until next time, Aloha!