We know, we know, it’s been a tough year. And saying that in itself is an understatement. We miss our lives, we miss going out, we miss seeing our friends and we’re hoping for things to return to normal as soon as possible. There have been highs and lows, mostly lows since the beginning of 2020 and now our patience is wearing thin. Our lives changed unexpectedly and we were thrown into the deep end of the unknown. New rules to live by, new procedures and protocols to follow, some of us don’t even know who we are anymore.
While this may be the case, 2020 has also been a new learning curve and experience for all of us. We have learned many new things, we’ve gained perspective, seen life in a whole new light, agree that we take many things for granted and are trying to make the most of the situation we are in until things calm down and the pandemic comes to an end. If you’re still feeling like your life is missing a little something, we’ve rounded up a few ways you can nourish your mind, body and soul, for a better second half of 2020.
Light that new scented candle
This could be the smallest possible step to make yourself feel better, and it’s tried and tested! If you have a new candle that’s locked up in your closet that you’re saving “for later”, later is now and now is the time to take it out and light it up! Since we’re spending so much time indoors, it is important that your home and your space have a comfortable and serene ambiance, and nothing creates the perfect ambiance better than a scented candle.
Read that book!
You might have a new book lying on your bed side table that you’ve been putting on hold, but it’s time to ask yourself why. Don’t procrastinate, just pick it up and start reading. It could be that novel you’ve been meaning to read or that fiction or even a historic fairytale that could take you away to another world temporarily which will rid you of all the quarantine blues. If you have nothing pending to read, ask for recommendations, join an online book club or borrow one from a neighbour!
Have a clear out
The feeling of clearing out a room or a wardrobe or an old cabinet is oh so underrated. The feeling you get of getting rid of old clothes or old items you no longer need can feel so rejuvenating. It’s like letting go of what you no longer need, and no longer holding on to things that weigh you down. Having a clearout can also symbolise new beginnings and the best part about it, is that you can make space for new things! Online shopping anyone?
Start working out again
If you’ve been in a slump and have put your workouts on hold, then that could explain a lot of things. A decline in your energy, feelings of lethargy and just generally feeling lazy are all just some of the things that come when you stop working out. And now, you don’t even need to go to a gym. There are a number of workouts available online and material available in abundance that can help you get back on track.
Buy a new pair of shoes
Now, there’s nothing a little retail therapy can’t fix! We know there’s no social gathering to attend and no vacation to plan but that doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in a pair of lovely shoes you’ve had your eyes on. With ongoing closures in many parts of the world, many brands have resorted to early mid season sales and quarantine deals to get sales up again. So check if the shoes you want are available online and if you’re lucky, they could also be at a discounted rate.
Stick to a strict sleeping routine
We don’t need to emphasise the importance of sleep because everyone knows that you should be getting between 7-8 hours of sleep each night. One way of staying refreshed and energised is ensuring you are getting enough zzz’s. Put yourself on a strict routine and make sure you step away from all your screens at least one hour before you sleep. Turn in with a good book or a hot cup of cocoa and you’ll feel well rested the next day.
http://thebrownidentity.com/2020/07/11/how-to-stay-calm-if-youre-having-a-panic-attack/
Send presents, for no reason at all
During these tough times, it is nice to check up on your friends and family. While it may be hard to be there physically, there are many other ways in which you can be there for your loved ones. If you’re baking a batch of brownies, why not bake an extra batch and drop them off for your BFF, or if you’re online shopping, pick a cheerful gift and have it delivered to a friend or family member you don’t live with. This is bound to make their day and will uplift their mood instantly.
Practice gratefulness
During the past few months, there’s been a few words we’ve been hearing and reading on repeat. Gratitude, grateful, hope and self care. These are encouraging words and can really help to shift your perspective and mindset. These words can give you hope and strength when times get tough. Engaging in practicing gratefulness means that you can take stock of all the things that you have in your life that you are grateful for. You can do this by penning it down in a gratitude journal or even by making a mental note in your head. Alternatively, you could practice this on a daily basis by writing down one thing each day that you are grateful for.
