Ten Takeaways FROM QUARANTINE By Dr. Amanda Lucas Covid 19 has changed the world in a short period of time. There are essential workers, non-essential workers, and employees working for home. In addition, there are workers who are suddenly unemployed, and their waiting game can be difficult, stressful, and a bit overwhelming. Suggested below are ten steps for encouragement and peace in our chaotic world, a type of quarantine bucket list.
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Clean your space. Now is a great time to get reorganized and super clean all the closets and laundry room. Redecorate, and update areas you’ve been meaning to get for years. Take those old clothes you don’t wear and donate them.
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Dress your best. When dressed better, you feel better, even if just lounging around the house. Make a schedule so the days won’t blend into one another. Get up everyday and put on makeup. Try going outside, cook breakfast, read a book, or sit on the porch and enjoy the weather. Facetime or Zoom a friend, which can boost energy and help you feel normal and relaxed, plus keep your self-esteem in check.
3
Spa Day is essential. Treat yourself with a pedicure, manicure, or other self-care to feel renewed. Relax and spoil yourself.
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Binge watch all your favorites. Now is the time for you to watch all your favorite shows.
Turn Chef. Now is the time to try new recipes or perfect recipes that have been passed down through generations.
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Hobby it out. Take time for your hobbies or create a new one. Start a business, create new products,
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and have virtual parties with friends. Put your energy toward something that can be mentally relaxing and maybe even make money. The old saying is true: an idle mind is the devil’s workshop. A great idea would be to visit the inspirational pinterest, where one can find recipes, arts and crafts, home projects, and even hair and spa ideas.
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Take a nap. Get some beauty rest. Take time to relax and spend time in prayer, which can reduce stress and eliminate insomnia that one may feel.
8
Go outside. Just because we’re social distancing doesn’t mean you can’t go outside to escape your clean space. Try going for a walk, a bike ride, or even sit in the front yard and enjoy the fresh air. Start a garden or build a barbecue pit.
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Read and then Read again. Now is the time to find favorite authors and their new publications. Self-help books can lift you out of a funk or depression. Keep a journal or enjoy adult coloring books, which gives time to think and ponder on daydreams and passions, also instilling new ideas and refreshing visions. If suffering from grief or financial woes, books can give encouragement and wise advice. There are free pdf’s online for some books and audibles on YouTube.
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Pray. In uncertain times we must remember there is a light at the end of the tunnel. We must walk by faith and not fear, since strength is undoubtedly our greatest asset. Be strong mentally, be compassionate to others, and remember people are angry and scared. Be the face of compassion and reason, a light of hope in these dark and trying times. No matter what, live your best life, safely!
WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 30, May 2020
