1. Limit yourself to one hour of news in the morning and one hour in the evening. The mindless repetition promulgated by the national news media only creates unnecessary anxiety and potential depression. Tune out the commentary and focus solely on the facts from reputable medical professionals and scientists. If you are battling cancer and/or are caring for someone battling the disease you already have an overwhelming amount going on daily. Be informed and then move on to something else.
2. Create a schedule. Keep it flexible but attempt to maintain some structure throughout your day. Having a routine when confined at home is key to fill your time and helps decrease stress. Below is my schedule at home with two young children.
3. Have FUN. Regardless of whether you live in a studio apartment or a mansion try and make certain you have some fun each day! Reconnect with loved ones. Read books that take you away from reality. Put on the music and dance. Play card games, board games, paint, or write. Try something new online like Master Class, learn a new language online, find a new recipe, take up indoor gardening, have date nights with your spouse/significant other, and watch shows that provide a mental escape like: National Geographic; travel shows; cooking shows; comedies [romantic or otherwise]; newly released movies or documentaries on topics of personal interest. Remember, laughter is key.
4. Stay connected. Particularly if you are ill, living alone, and feeling isolated, depressed, or in an abusive situation. Reach out to friends, co-workers, family, or these additional resources below. You are not alone. If you are battling cancer, create a call, email, or text list of people, neighbors, or friends that can help support you. Keep your spirits up with positive people and conversation. When I was battling cancer I would sit by the window and soak up the sun. I would close my eyes take deep slow breaths and visualized white healing light going from my head to my toes. This provided me a hopeful and peaceful form of daily meditation.
5. Remain calm. This pandemic has caused great emotional fear and anxiety for everyone around the world socially and financially. Write out and express your fears then shift your focus to what has stayed the same since the pandemic. Write out three things that have not changed and focus on what is staying the same and the positive benefits of being at home. Try meditation to relax both your body and mind.
We are very lucky to have countless wonderful resources online. Below are several fantastic resources online that I use.
https://blog.prepscholar.com/easy-science-experiments-for-kids-at-home https://parade.com/1009774/stephanieosmanski/things-to-do-with-kids-during-coronavirus-quarantine/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1bR-0XBfcs https://learnwithhomer.com/library/genre/fairy-tales/
https://parade.com/1009774/stephanieosmanski/things-to-do-with-kids-during-coronavirus-quarantine/ https://www.realsimple.com/…/15-minute-meals-0
https://www.delish.com/