How are you taking care of yourself right now? With kids & hubby home, and being socially isolated – it’s easy to become on edge.
We are all familiar with airplane protocol of putting on the oxygen mask first, then assisting someone next to us. This analogy reminds us that if we don’t take care of ourselves first, we won’t be able to take care of our families, neighbors, or loved ones.
To be our best selves, we need to refocus and refuel. This enables us to have more joy, grace, patience, and energy to love others.
What grounds you? What brings joy into your day? During times like these it is important that we find ways to calm and settle our minds, and bring peace into our hearts and homes.
Ways To Bring Peace & Joy To Your day:
1. Quiet Time: Begin your day with a devotion, (There are many on my writing page) https://leannseale.com/writing/ Bible reading, and prayer. Spend time with the Lord.
2. Clean the house: (I’m not kidding!) Getting “your world” in order and tidy can create a sense of peace when everything feels uncertain.
3. Exercise: Get outside for a hike or walk, workout with an on demand or stream like BeachBody.com: https://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/on-demand-workout-videos.do, or turn on a quiet praise & worship playlist, while working on your yoga stretches. Add your favorite diffuser for calm or energy.
4. Home Spa Experience: Create your own by lighting candles, put in a deep conditioner while taking a hot bubble bath. Read a book or listen to your favorite playlist. Relax. Breathe.
5. Mani-Pedis: Pamper your family members. There won’t be salons open any time soon… and the touch of a hand/foot massage will soothe and comfort. (Warm lotion: combine coconut oil and lotion in a glass dish, warm for only a few seconds in a microwave)
6. Journal: Write down your thoughts and feelings each day. We are living out unprecedented times. We are making history. Document for your children and grandchildren.
7. Be Positive: Focus on all the positive changes and creative kindness taking place; locally, in our state, country, and around the world.
8. Cut Flowers: Bring spring cheer inside by cutting flowers from your yard and enjoy them in your kitchen or the main area of your home.
9. Stay Connected: Make a few phone calls each day and talk with friends & family. Set up a Zoom conference meeting and engage with a group of friends. https://zoom.us/
10. Count your blessings: Nothing changes your attitude or perspective like a grateful heart. Start with five. If you get there quickly, make it ten. Soon you realize how blessed you are and that God provides for your daily needs.
11. Begin A Bible Study: Max Lucado’s “Anxious For Nothing” (free through May 2nd) – includes 5 online teaching videos and materials. https://www.faithgateway.com/anxious-for-nothing-obs-registration/
12. Play Games: Break out the board games, play charades, play hide and seek, or go on an indoor scavenger hunt. Or connect by playing games online with others. We need fun and laughter right now!
How are you choosing to cope while staying at home?
What are some simple things that bring you joy and peace? Please share! I’d love to hear your thoughts.