The rest of my efforts are going to boosting my immunity and keeping myself healthy. I do know that none of my intentional wellness habits guarantees my health and safety! But I feel strong doing what I can, where I am, with what I have.
Food🥬
I eat fresh fruits and vegetables every day. I'm vegan so this is my 'main' diet.
I do indulge in comforting carbs, because, winter, and comfort! I do limit white sugar and flour, although I am more relaxed about it on the weekends.
I drink lots and lots of water.
Rest😴
I go to bed around the same time every night and get up around the same time every morning. Routine really, really calms anxiety for me. I get an average of 7-9 hours of sleep. I have not always been a good sleeper—as most mothers can relate! I have practiced good sleep hygiene for a number of years and now it's working for me.
I also have an afternoon rest and read time. This is what feeds my creativity tank. Usually about the time I think I might close my eyes and 'meditate' for a minute, I'll get an inspiration of some kind!
Exercise💪🏻
I have a short, daily yoga practice to keep me limber/flexible. I do 1 to 3 long walks/week and short ones almost all the rest of the days. Fresh air each day helps my nighttime sleep. Even when it's bitterly cold, I bundle up thoroughly (no bad weather, just bad clothes!) and at least walk around the block.
Creativity/Hobbies🧶
I do a fair bit of binge watching t.v. and movies in the evenings, but I've taken up crocheting while I watch.
I do something creative everyday. As I mentioned, I crochet, paint, colour, play guitar/piano and/or play with digital photos and graphics (like the one below!)
I spend more time cooking than I used to. On weekends, I look up recipes and try making things I haven't before. I made pretzels! My friend Laureen is a food blogger (Art & the Kitchen). The pretzel recipe is HERE
It's a stretch some days! It's fun for me to text my friends and family (I love emojis!) and I've brought in our out-door bean bag toss game. My husband and I play a game every day after work! So far he's won more than I, but every now and again I get a win. We also play a game or two of cards on the weekend. I play several different kinds of solitaire on my computer each night before bed.
Gratitude🙏
I do gratitude writing every morning. It sets the tone for the day and I remind myself how privileged I am!
I did not go directly from a burned out, Coca-cola drinking, cheese and meat eating, over weight, cigarette smoking depressive to a person with wellness habits overnight. These habits were a process!
Therapies. Coaches and Therapists. I experimented and took what worked for me.
I do, of course, have low-energy days, even days when I feel sad and discouraged. I know this is 'normal' during the best of times and even to be expected during this very unsettling time. I try not to plan/think too far into the future because the uncertainty makes me anxious. By focusing on wellness each day, I keep myself present and maintain a feeling of some 'control.'
What about you? How are you spending your pandemic days? How is your health and well-being?
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