13 Jul 2020

Looking after yourself always has been, and always will be, the epitome of priorities. Amidst this overwhelming chaos, it's easy to get bogged down and essentially, neg out. So, self-care has become more important than ever.

I know, it might feel like you're walking around on eggshells, terrified that a second wave of corona might strike and what that'd mean for your life. And seriously, no one wants to go back to remote learning, isolated from their mates. Not to mention if you're attempting to study for the HSC whilst hearing new updates on a global pandemic every day... jeez, even I need a breather just from writing all that.

Even though life is pretty hectic, it's time to take a step back and zen out. You'll be feeling clearer and calmer in no time.

But after all that, how can we actually look after ourselves?

 

1. Switch off

You can 'switch off' a multitude of things.

For example, switching off your phone may keep your brain from wandering and worrying about corona. That'll keep you more focused and present as well.

Switching off your mind is also pretty dang important. Humans roughly have about 60,000 thoughts a day. Think about how many of those thoughts are worries of the pandemic, your future, even your exam marks.

By getting enough sleep (eights hours please and thanks), dedicating time to veg out and watch a movie once in a while and even trying meditation to zen the heck out, you'll be doing your inner and outer self the service it deserves.

2. You are what you eat

I’d be lying if I said I didn’t indulge in eating a jar of Nutella every now and then. I mean, hello, treatin' yourself counts as self-care because it makes you happy!

But looking after that temple of yours is kind of a big deal and the food you eat impacts a hell of a lot! If your brain is foggy, your energy levels are pretty low and you don't feel too red hot, it'll probably benefit you to get some more nutrients in ya.

Since you’re probably spending more time inside rather than at restaurants and cafe’s, now is prime time to get creative in the kitchen and play around with making your meals healthier!

3. Let's get physical, physical!

Well done, you’ve channelled your inner rabbit and have been inhaling your fruits and veggies. Now it’s time to keep looking after that temple of yours. 

Moving is a little more difficult in these weird times, especially if remote learning does happen again. Sitting around all day is a real drag for our bods so make it a daily routine to get some sort of movement happening whether that includes taking your doggo for a walk, running around the backyard, doing some yoga or boogieing to some bangers like a loose unit.

As Elle Woods in Legally Blonde would say: “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy." It's as simple as that.

4. Get some Vitamin D

During times like these, the outside world is pretty crazy. But fresh air and some good ol' vitamin D is oh so important. Go for a walk around the neighbourhood, eat your lunch on a secluded beach, read a book in your backyard - whatever you do, don't coop yourself inside all day.

I have made it a simple habit to always study outside and it improves my mood extravagantly. 

5. Learn a new hobby or skill

Prioritising time to expanding that magnificent mind of yours feels SO rewarding! Better yet, you have the world at your fingertips and can learn almost anything online. Interested in history or philosophy? Want to learn an instrument or how to paint? Ever wanted to speak fluently in another language just because? SEND IT!

It's exciting, liberating and soooo beneficial to always be expanding our brains.

6. Be open

During this pandemic, engaging with our friends and fam is pretty difficult thanks to isolation. Even though you may not be seeing your loves ones IRL as much as you'd want to, still talking to them online is such a stress relief.

Be open with them, let them know how you're really going and of course, let them be open with you. 

7. Journal

Last but not least, journal! You know how I said that humans have around 60,000 thoughts swimming around their minds a day? That's enough to make anyone zonked! Investing just 10 minutes a day to scribbling down recollections from the day, your weird dream, your goals for the future, your theories for the tv show you're watching... anything!

Let your worries seep away as you close the journal.

These are crazy times, I know. But prioritise looking after yourself inside and out to strive forward towards a much groovier future. Lots of love, legends. <3