CREATE STRUCTURE IN YOUR DAY
One of the simplest and most effective steps you can take to stave off cabin fever is to treat your days the same as you did prior to the shelter-in-place order. It can be tempting to sleep in and spend the majority of your time in pajamas but doing so may make you feel more unsettled or directionless.
Strive to wake up at the same time most days. Shower, and dress in clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident. Make your bed and keep your living space tidy. If you are taking online courses or working remotely, stick to a schedule. Try to eat at regular mealtimes and go to bed each night at a reasonable hour. These simple actions should help you feel more in control, which can do wonders for your frame of mind.
GIVE YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM A BOOST
When our routines are interrupted and we’re stuck at home for an extended period, it can be easy to fall into bad habits, such as eating too much comfort food or sneaking snacks from the kitchen. The fact that gyms and health clubs are temporarily closed compounds the problem, providing an easy excuse to slack off on our fitness regimens.
Try to buy, prepare and eat well-balanced meals, including fruits and vegetables that can help boost your immune system. In addition, go outside to walk, run or bike while practicing appropriate social distancing. You could also start an in-home workout program and stream exercise videos from your TV, computer, phone or tablet. A healthy diet and regular physical activity will help keep stress levels in check.
MAINTAIN SAFE CONTACT WITH FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CLASSMATES
Physical isolation from our friends, classmates, and loved ones can be hard, especially when we don’t know how long it will last. Thankfully, today’s technology provides numerous ways to stay in touch with others.
You could schedule regular video chats with family or set up a virtual happy hour with friends. Of course, talking to loved ones through a screen is not the same as being together. Still, there is comfort in connecting with others to share frustrations and laughs.
As we self-isolate, there is a tendency to feel alone. It may help to remember that your friends, relatives, classmates, co-workers, neighbors and teachers are all struggling with the shelter-in-place orders too.
At Generations College, we are committed to taking the appropriate actions that protect the health and well-being of our student body, faculty and staff.