Now is the time to care for yourself, here’s how

Shea Carlberg, Humor Editor

In this very unique, uncertain time we live in right now, it’s hard to process information or know which way to turn with various news outlets shoving facts and fears in our faces. It gets tough to stay motivated and remember life before this pandemic, before the chaos and worries and doubts.

The most important thing for everyone right now is to take care of your individual mind and body. Mentally and physically, people are putting strains on themselves for not being productive or not doing the things they had hoped to during this time. 

I know that I’m one of those people who have kicked myself for not going outside when I should or not reading a book, when instead I choose to sleep in another two hours or binge that one show again. But maybe that’s not so bad.

Everyone cares for themselves differently and it’s important to listen to yourself in this time of uncertainty and vulnerability. Things are scary, yes; they are new, but you are still the same person and need to do what your body is telling you. If that means skipping a few productive hours to indulge in a comforting show, then listen to yourself and take care of your needs. 

Don’t be ashamed if you are not always on top of your game. This is the time to experiment with new things and figure out the values in your life. A day with the least amount of effort can actually turn out to be the most efficient because you listen to what you have been holding back on and genuinely enjoy yourself. And what’s wrong with that?

Take a moment to reflect on everything in your life that’s led to this point: what, or who, has made you the person you are right now? What experiences have you learned the most from and hope to undergo more of in the future? Celebrate the person you were before this, and the person you will become coming out of it. We are all learning and seeing the same changes during this and we can distinguish between facts and fears if we just listen to what’s going on in the world. However, most importantly, listen to your mind and heart that knows the best for you, and be patient with yourself. This will allow you to implement good habits to take care of yourself to the fullest.

Focus on yourself, on being okay. It’s so easy to get caught in the loop of social media but sometimes we also need to distance ourselves from the internet. 

I challenge you to step outside and turn off the news or the draining feed from your mobile device and just think about what’s going on around you.

And live in the moment.