Self-Care During Covid

Have the days gotten longer, but time for yourself seems shorter?

When it comes to our mind, body and soul, we have to take the time to nurture ourselves. During the times of COVID-19, a lot is surpassing us within our day-to-day life, and it is now more than ever that we have to dive deep in taking care of ourselves.

With self-care, it should be known that there is a lot more than picking one specific day.

You are a beautiful temple who deserves nourishment all day every day and using that ‘self-care Sunday’ may feel good in the moment, but it is not enough. You are more than one day a week kind of deal. Being stuck at home and watching Netflix is quite cozy, why not throw in a face mask or cucumber water to keep hydrated and remember to keep the body moving!

What is Self-Care?

The WHO 1998 definition:

‘Self-Care is what people do for themselves to establish and maintain health, and to prevent and deal with illness. It is a broad concept encompassing hygiene (general and personal), nutrition (type and quality of food eaten), lifestyle (sporting activities, leisure etc.), environmental factors (living conditions, social habits, etc.) socio-economic factors (income level, cultural beliefs, etc.) and self-medication.’

Self-Care Tips:  

During a pandemic our bodies may go into deep shock. Life is becoming more stressful as good news is hard to find these days. Being able to take that time for relaxation or just managing your own personal stress can help with maintaining your wellness.

Managing Stress

  • Set aside time for YOU. Busy Day? Set 20-minute interval timers for breaks.
  • Take deep breaths. Deep breathing in between tasks and when feeling overwhelmed.
  • Declutter your workspace.
  • Keep a Journal.
  • Have blinds open! Take in that natural lighting.
  • Daily affirmations!

Self-Isolation/ Quarantine

  • Keep productive! Open up that old planner you once bought and plan fun tasks to do.
  • Online interaction. Not being able to see our loved ones is tough, making time for zoom dates or having long phone calls is a way to stay connected.
  • Practice daily routines. Being at home can get a little boring, try making a daily regime that you are willing to stick to.
  • Used to going to the gym? Find free online workouts/yoga exercises to keep the blood flowing. Our living room or bedroom is the new workout room.
  • Have something on your mind? Reach out to a close friend or help line and remember you are not alone!

Remember to stay safe, stay well and be kind to yourself.

Are you or a friend having suicidal thoughts? Here are some resources to reach out to. Remember you are not alone <3

Gerstein Centre 24/7 crisis line (also for support folks): (416) 929-5200
Canada Suicide Prevention Service (CSPS)  1.833.456.4566
Crisis Text Line Canada   Text CONNECT to 686868
 Befrienders Worldwide   
Emergency Services   911

Reference: CAMH. (2021). Self-Care. Retrieved from https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-health-and-covid-19/information-for-professionals/self-care

By: Nicole N. (A Trip! Team Member)