My Self Care Strategies

The COVID-19 pandemic has radically changed the way I live, from the way I now work, to my development / learning and even my social life / lifestyle. This new reality has been really tricky for me and has challenged me more than I would have believed.

I would like to take a moment to reflect on some of the best ways that I have been able to manage my stress, anxiety, sleep, exercise, diet all to make sure I am able to take care of me and my family.

• Get Outdoors

I have found that ditching the comfort of my home office has been important for my mental and physical health. Just spending the time outdoors has really benefitted my brain and I feel being outside enables me to think more creatively and positively towards tasks.

At the start of the pandemic, I invested in my garden which has made it a lovely space to be in. I also take my two boys to the local park / sports club. I commit to getting outdoors and moving for at least an hour each day.

• Workout

Before Covid-19 I would cycle the 8-mile commute to the office on a daily basis. Therefore working from home really disrupted my exercise routine and I did feel the effect on my mood and wellbeing.

I have been fortunate that my current employer has promoted the importance of regular exercise and they have even set up twice-weekly exercise classes which have been great for getting me into shape but also improving my mood and well being. I have also invested in an indoor cycling machine to allow me to keep cycling on a daily basis.

• Fuel my body

The novelty of constantly working from home and being within eyeshot of the fridge and snack drawer was too tempting to turn down. It is safe to say I was putting on the pandemic pounds.

I have since made a conscious effort to diet, which unfortunately includes counting calories and making sure I am eating more fruit and veg. I would also ensure that I would drink more water - so if I was feeling hungry, I would drink water rather than a snack. Being more conscious of my body has meant I feel fitter, healthier, and happier as a result of this diet and exercise.

• Tunes

I am somebody who really likes listening to music - it gives me more focus and makes me happier. I would make sure that I listen to my happy playlist on a daily basis to keep a smile on my face and distract me from any worries I might have. Safe to say this includes listening to plenty of Oasis - which is great!

• Take some time off

Something which I have done during Covid-19 is to purchase a Caravan. I am somebody who has always relied on taking regular holidays and breaks from work. The thought of living with pandemic restrictions was getting me down as I couldn't see how I would get my fix and relax away from the distractions of work anytime soon.

The caravan is ideal, not only has it given me a new hobby but it enables me to create adventures and memories with my family and have a break away from work which feels great!

• Read & Write

Covid-19 has given me the motivation to read and write more which has been fantastic. I have really enjoyed blogging and writing articles which is something I have always wanted to do, but never really had the courage or confidence.

I certainly feel more knowledgable now as a result of dedicating the time to read and learn - which is something that is keeping my mind shape and has opened my mind up to more which has a whole bunch of benefits.

I am also trying to focus on a couple more self-care areas which I know will benefit me;

1. Prioritise sleep - I am guilty of taking my phone / iPad to bed and staying awake longer than needed as a result of these distractions. Now my kids are old enough to not wake up in the middle of the night I should be focusing on getting good quality sleep which will make me more resilient.

2. Shut off - I spend too much time on social media and I should disconnect more often. I will look to spend more time off social media and spend it on better uses.

3. Spread the word - I would like to pass positively on to colleagues / friends and I will look to pass on recognition to at least 5 co-workers / friends a week.

4. Go deeper and learn more! be a learn-it-all.

These are my tips which I have used to stay healthy and to look after myself. Self-care isn't selfish, it's essential - especially during these crazy times. No-one's perfect. But so often we compare our insides to other people's outsides. Let's all be kinder to ourselves (as well as others), especially when things go wrong. Self-care increases our resilience and helps us get more out of life. It also helps us accept others as they are too. 

Remember that you're not alone - I am here if you needed somebody to talk to - please don't hesitate to reach out to me!

Stay safe, stay healthy, be kind!

HR Blogger