How To Keep Yourself Healthy While Self-Isolating

As humans, we thrive off interaction and right now, we can’t interact. Things are scary and unfortunately, there’s no end in sight. But that doesn’t mean you can’t maintain your health and wellness — and you definitely should. Instead of wallowing in self-pity, use this time to improve and grow so that when the quarantine is lifted, you’ll be a better person because of it. Here are 10 ways to keep yourself healthy amid the current global health crisis.

1. Create A Routine. This current climate is chaotic, which probably makes you feel anxious. The best way to combat that is by having a routine. Having a set schedule will help you feel more in control of your life. Don’t stay up all night or wake up right before you have to work. Get dressed before 9 a.m., drink water throughout the day, and make time for exercise. Set a schedule for yourself and try not to stray from it.
2. Cut Back On Alcohol. You might be tempted to pass the time with alcohol. Why not, right? Unfortunately, drinking all day isn’t going to make you healthier. It’ll mess with your emotions and you’ll probably pack on the pounds. Not to mention, alcohol can weaken the immune system and make it easier to catch infections. It’s okay to drink in moderation, but don’t drink more than you did just because you’re bored.
3. Be Nice To Yourself. You had big plans before this quarantine and those plans have unfortunately been put on hold. Maybe you were going to move across the country after college, backpack through Europe with friends, or finally land that promotion. Right now, you can’t make plans and it probably makes you feel helpless. Try to relax and show yourself some compassion. We’re all going through the same thing!
4. Focus On Your Relationship. Are you and your partner self-isolating together? At first, it probably sounded like fun, but now you’re starting to hate their guts. You’re not alone. A lot of couples are struggling right now. Don’t stress! Instead, pretend like you’re on a vacation. Play games, take time for yourself and enjoy the silence. Try to cut your partner some slack and be thankful you have someone to quarantine with.
5. Go Outside. No, you can’t go to your friend’s house or meet your co-workers for happy hour, but you can leave your home and go outside. And you should. If you stay inside all day, your body won’t get enough Vitamin D and you’ll start to feel lethargic and moody. You might even gain weight. Take a break from your indoor schedule and walk around your neighborhood. Just make sure you keep your distance from others.
6. Get some exercise. Whatever you do, don’t become complacent while practicing social distancing. Get up and exercise. That could mean going on a run or doing a quick 15-minute ab workout you found on YouTube. There are so many ways you can maintain your health while being at home. You just have to make the decision to get off your couch and move.
7. Be grateful. Keep in mind, things could be much, much worse. It might not feel like that but it’s true. Instead of thinking of what you don’t have, take a minute to reflect on everything you do. Do you have someone to quarantine with? Do you still have your job? Are you in good health? Be thankful. Not everyone can say the same.
8. Keep Communicating With Your Friends. Your social life doesn’t have to go away just because you’re social distancing. You can virtually spend time with your friends and family. That’s what Skype, FaceTime, Google Hangouts, and social media are for. Call your family during your lunch break, create a virtual book club with your friends — do your best to stay connected.
9. Create Designated Spaces. Your home feels very small right now, doesn’t it? That’s because you’re stuck inside. While you probably won’t be moving into a mansion anytime soon, you can make the best out of the situation by creating designated spaces. Have a designated work area (and make sure it’s not your bed), have a designated exercise area, and a designated eating area. The more you control your situation, the better you’ll feel.
10. Focus On Passion Projects. We all have something we’ve put on the back burner because of our busy schedules. What’s yours? Whatever it is, do it! Create the blog you’ve always envisioned or apply to graduate school. The free time you have right now probably makes you feel uncomfortable, but don’t just wallow in self-pity. Instead, use this time to explore your passion projects and accomplish what you’ve always wanted.