This week marked my third week of self quarantine because of the coronavirus. I wouldn’t say that I’m particularly high risk, although I do have an autoimmune disease and I had asthma as a kid, so I’ve erred on the side of caution. The first week went by fast, Matt was still going to work everyday and life felt kind of normal. But, as COVID-19 continues to spread rapidly each day, I can’t help but feel more anxious and fearful about the uncertainty ahead. Since we’re all in this together and it looks like we’re going to be in quarantine for awhile, I thought I’d share some of the things I’ve been doing to help me feel healthy and calm at home.
1 – CREATIVE PLAY
I went through a really difficult season at the end of last year – both physically and emotionally. To help me process some of my feelings, I went back through one of my all-time favorite books, The Artist’s Way by Julie Cameron. In her book, Julie explains the importance of exploring creativity for self-growth and discovery. It made me realize just how much I missed playing the piano, something that was a huge part of my childhood and adolescent life. I’ve been making an attempt to practice a little each day. This time at home has given me the opportunity to create new goals for myself and learn new music.
2 – JOURNAL
Journaling has been part of my daily routine since high school. Putting a pen to paper and writing down my thoughts helps me work through and process my feelings. Last Christmas, my mom gave me an adult coloring book and it has been a nice tool to help me de-stress. It’s calming and meditative. Coloring helps me take my mind off of the news for a bit. I try to make it as relaxing as I can by pouring myself a glass of wine, lighting my favorite candle, and playing a relaxing playlist on Spotify.
3 – STREAM WORKOUTS
I’ve been an avid follower of Tracy Anderson’s workout program since 2009. I’m a huge fan – I’ve done all of her DVDs, Metamorphosis {+ Continuity}, followed by her online streaming program that launched in 2015. Because of her online studio, I am used to exercising at home. Although at-home workouts aren’t for everyone, Tracy makes it easy and fun. All you need is a yoga mat and 3lb hand weights {and eventually ankle weights}. If you want to try out her program, she’s currently offering a free two week trial for her online streaming program HERE. And if you want a quick, 15 minute full-body workout, here’s a video she uploaded last week on YouTube. I’m also a huge fan of Yoga with Adriene on YouTube. Having a consistent yoga practice is something that I cannot live without. Adrienne’s classes bring the perfect combination of healing, calm, and lighthearted humor. I highly recommend it.
4 – GROUP FACETIME OR TV WATCH PARTY
We’ve had group FaceTime calls with our family every week during quarantine. It’s been such a fun way to keep up with our loved ones. Seeing their familiar faces and hearing how they’re spending their time at home has made us feel more connected. And for the past week, Matt and I have been watching either a movie or TV show with family via speakerphone. Sharing a viewing experience, even in the most unconventional of ways, has been incredibly refreshing.
5 – COOKING WITH MATT
Because of our work schedules, Matt and I are rarely able to cook dinner together. We’ve been taking full advantage and making some of our favorite meals during our time at home. Lots of pasta, Beyond Burgers, and pizza! And since we’re trying to cut down on visits to the grocery store, we like to batch cook meals and make enough to have leftovers the next day. I’ve been trying to share some of our meals on my IG Stories, too!
6 – CUDDLES WITH MICKEY
I may be biased, but dogs make life more fun. Mickey has been such a joy during this quarantine. His happy-go-lucky demeanor and companionship provides the best distraction from all that we’re going through right now. Our daily walks and dance parties are some of my favorite moments of my day.
