Taking Care of YOU during Social Distancing: Thriving during COVID-19
I have now been home due to #socialdistancing for over 3 weeks, and I feel like I am #thriving! I am #thankful to be able to stay home, and very #grateful for those who are providing medical care or essential services in my surrounding Boston area. Many Thanks!!
Because I have been running my business, Sarah Scala Consulting, from home for over 7 years, this was less of an adjustment for me. I do miss being able to go to restaurants or use the park system, though these are small prices to pay for the health and safety of my neighbors.
how I am staying healthy while staying home
Riding my road bike on a trainer, and taking advantage of Peloton's free 90-day trial. I had never done Peloton before, and was excited to try it with this offer. At first, I thought it only included spinning classes.,However, the app also includes: treadmill, walking, running, weights, stretching, and yoga workouts with different instructors and different lengths of time. My preference are 30 minute cycling workouts listening to hip-hop!
Outside bike rides, hikes, runs, and walks when the weather is warm enough. I have been taking my e-bike out for short rides at times of the day that don't seem to have as much traffic. On Sunday, I rode from my home in Watertown, Massachusetts to Harvard Square in Cambridge - 8 miles round trip. It was wonderful to see the cherry trees starting to bloom and to get some fresh air!
Walking, jogging, or running on my treadmill. When I do these activities, I typically am either watching a show or movie on Hulu, catching up on YouTube videos, or listening to podcasts. It's a great to not feel guilty about watching TV because I can also get my exercise in by #multitasking!
Besides maintaining strong physical health, I am also focusing on supporting my mental well-being. With this social distancing and all the stress of what's going on with #COVID-19, I feel that this is even more important now!
how I am supporting my Mental Well-being
Giving Back. To support my community, I made many batches of cookies to deliver to my neighbors. Read more in my blog about Pizelles and COVID-19.
Meditation. I try to meditate each day. I have used many apps or YouTube videos that give me some guidance with mindful meditation. Sometimes this has been as simple as taking a moment to reflect and be grateful.
Journaling. I write in my journal each day, as I have for a number of years. I write about five things I'm grateful for, five things that would be great to have happen in the day, and five things that I Am (5-5-5). Using this structure for my journaling helps me to reflect back on the past with gratitude, set my intentions for the day, and check in with the present moment. I use an app, Journey, on my Samsung Tab tablet with my stylist so I can write out my thoughts and feelings each morning.
Healthy eating. I am making an effort to eat more fruits and vegetables with each meal. I do slip up every few days and today I had pepperoni Hot Pockets and an ice cream sandwich for my lunch :). All is good in moderation, I believe.
Napping and Sleeping In. I have noticed myself being a bit more tired. I assume this is because of stress watching the news and trying to stay updated on what's going on with COVID-19 in our country. I recognized this right away when social distancing began, and I have allowed myself to take a nap, typically in the afternoon or to sleep in a little later in the morning. Not having to travel for client projects right now has given me a bit more flexibility and time in the day. I am a big fan of naps! zzzzzzz
Reading. I am reading a lot of articles, blogs, and books right now. I typically ready 50 books per year and 2020 could be even more!
Bubble Baths. For my #SelfCare in the evenings, I am taking warm baths with lavender Epsom salt, bubble bath, a candle, and some relaxing music to help me relax and thrive.
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Leave a comment below to share what you're doing to be successful during social distancing.
About the Author:
Sarah Scala is a senior talent management leader and executive coach with 20+ years of experience providing organization development, change management, and leadership development solutions for diverse global and local industries. She is a collaborative consultant, coach, and educator supporting performance transformation of executives, leaders, and teams. Sarah is a methodical, results-driven leader recognized for helping clients reach their highest potential, increase revenue, reduce turnover, elevate business profitability, build competencies, and improve performance.
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