As recommended by our volunteer Clarissa Lim
As the Circuit Breaker period comes to an end, we are still expected to take precautionary measures to protect ourselves and our loved ones. If you are like me, who struggled to stay indoors during the circuit breaker period, you might still feel unsure of how to get used to the ‘new normal’.
Do not fret, we’ve created a list of things that you can do to stay healthy and keep your spirits up this trying time!
#1 Start a Gratitude Journal
Better sleep, more happiness, and reduced symptoms of illness are what comes from writing in a gratitude journal three times a week. The simple act of writing down the lists of things you’re grateful for is a way for you to organise your thoughts and guide you to accept your own experiences.
There’s no right way to keep a gratitude journal, but here’s how you can get started. We recommend writing down at least three things which you feel grateful for. These things can be relatively small events from, “Took a cooling bath” to a relatively huge event such as “My sister just gave birth to a baby girl”.
Focus on the good event, person, things in your life that bring joy. This allows you to see the meaning of events going on around you and motivates you to create meaning in your life. Remember to write regularly!
#2 Watch an Educational Video and Take Up a New Hobby
Keen to learn new skills in the comfort of your home? Educating yourself doesn’t have to be boring. You can watch tons of free DIY hacks and recipes that can be useful and fun to spend time. Find anything that needs fixing around your house or invest on cheap ingredients to learn and cook.
For starters, the famous Dalgona Coffee is something easy you can start with. If you’re on the internet, you probably have seen the frothy coffee craze that’s flooding on your feed. And it’s affordable to make and tastes yummy!
#3 Grow a Simple House Plant
Gardening is a popular pastime for many of us! It’s therapeutic and beneficial for your health. Growing your own plant feels as good as accomplishing a new task, which acts as an antidote to your self-esteem and confidence.
Grab a few vegetables from your kitchen, and see what you can grow! Onions, chilli seeds and ginger are simple foods you can start to grow a simple house plant.
#4 Do an Effective Workout (In a Small Space)
Getting some kind of exercise is better than none. While practising social distancing, a few of us might find trying to squeeze exercises in small spaces at home feels like a lost cause. Well, you can still keep your fitness goals on track while staying at home.
We’ve collected the best and simple bodyweight exercises (yes you don’t need equipment!) that will keep you fit and sweat buckets.
#5 Create your own ‘Happy Playlist’ for Good Vibes
Isn’t it interesting that a song can make us feel happy or calm? We’ve all made a strong connection with music. When a song is played to your liking, your brain releases a chemical called dopamine that can elevate your mood. Listening to music everyday improves our overall well-being such as:
– Better sleep
– Reduces stress and anxiety
– Boost memory and alertness
– Increases work productivity
A well-curated playlist can go a long way in making you stay motivated, so take your routine to the next level with your favourite songs!
#6 Support the Vulnerable Ones
Who says you can’t help out in volunteering work if you’re stuck at home? Finding ways to volunteer virtually, whether by sharing your time, skills, or resources, is a great initiative to pick up, if you have available time to spare. Volunteering helps you utilize your skills during the extra time you have and make a difference in others’ lives. Helping people connects you with others and the community, you can make new friends and increase your social relationships!
#7 Seek Help
Remember, it’s totally normal if you’re feeling anxious and worried during this Covid-19 pandemic. Getting used to the ‘new normal’ may be difficult, but you are helping to protect yourself and others by doing so. Don’t forget to show emotional support to your friends or relatives who may be facing stress and concerns during this period. #YouGotThis!
If you know anyone battling with stress or depression, there are hotlines he/she may call:
Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline (6389-2222)
Samaritans of Singapore (1800-221-4444)
About Clarissa
A yoga enthusiast who used to be an avid traveller, I enjoy evening walks with my puppy. I’m taking advantage of this time to develop my skills and help others through volunteering.
