Isolation Tips To Tackle Stress

When we are living in a world filled with stress everywhere we go and taking one look at the headlines is enough to make our head spin, it is paramount to build up habits that help us to maintain our cool and find ways to calm our bodies and minds. During a global pandemic where we have to self-isolate to protect ourselves and others looking after ourselves physically and mentally has become a priority that will aid us to navigate through the upcoming weeks.
Over the years I have managed to create a few safe havens for myself so here I am sharing some in the hope that it will help to show you how even the smallest things can make a difference.

Cleansing: When all you hear from all media platforms is how important it is to wash our hands and clean our surroundings, cleansing has never been more important. Cleansing isn't about vanity but optimal skin health and it is one of the cornerstones of any skincare routine. The great thing is that you can make it part of your self-care routine too, here is how I do it:

I usually have a light cleanse in the morning using the new Elemis Superfood Cica Calm Cleansing foam infused with Agave, Rice Water and Green Tea Seed Oil that have been fermented to release vitamins and nutrients. This leaves the skin soothed, fresh and it gives a lovely boost for the day.
In the evening I turn cleansing it into whole ritual. I love a balmy, creamy product with soothing essential oils like the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm infused with Elderberry, Starflower and OptimegaTM oils and with Elemis' signature anti-ageing algae, Padina Pavonica. After applying a generous amount I take my facial massage roller and give myself a thorough massage for 5 to10 minutes while breathing in the luscious aromas that calm me down. This leaves my skin nourished, soothed and glowing so after washing it off with a soft cloth all I need is a great hydrating serum and a night cream.

Daily Routine: Even if I don't have big things to do and it might sound ridiculous, but I usually keep a schedule every day. There is something powerful and soothing about daily rituals during a crisis. I know it might sound strange, but before you discard the idea, have a look at what I have drawn up for today.

7.00: wake up,
7.15: go for a run in the nearby park,
8.15 stretching, 8.30 shower,
9.00: breakfast, tea,
9.30: writing for Beauty Secrets,
11.00: tea break,
11.30 more writing, research,
13.00 cooking, having lunch,
14.30 board games with boyfriend,
17.00: watching tv with boyfriend, put on a face mask,
18.00: body brushing, quick bath,
18.30: dinner,
19.00: catching up on Youtube videos, watching tv,
22.30: meditation, bedtime.

My previous day revolved around chores and baking. You can make it your own every day depending on what fits your life. A well structured day around work, chores, family always brings me clarity, focus, it makes me more productive not to talk about taking my mind off of all the negativity around right now especially of what's happening on social media. If I didn't have this structure I am pretty sure I would easily become mentally, physically and emotionally drained very quickly crumbling under the weight of the severe situation that this global pandemic is.

Meditation: If I struggle with calming down at the end of the day, or just feel anxious I meditate. Meditation is so much more than sitting still for a few minutes. Meditation is to look deep to have the kind of insight you need to take action later. I started with 5 minutes of just switching off before going to bed and listen to soothing music, woodlands sounds or the sound of the ocean and now I can do up to 30 minutes. Of course, it doesn't have to be before bedtime, I just tend to think most people find that the easiest whatever their life set-up is. Not looking frantically at my phone but focusing on the sounds and the calm makes a huge difference in my life, hopefully, it will in yours too.

Being Kind: let's face it. The world is pretty grim right now and the majority of us are struggling in one way or another due to Covid-19. However, I noticed something here in Hove that took me by surprise. People can't go outside as much as they used to but when they do, it seems they are more attentive to each other. I see people acknowledging each other more, smiling at each other when they are clumsily trying to find a way to keep the distance and walk around each other. There were even some strangers who said Good Morning to me, smiling on the street while heading to do my grocery shop! Imagine that! It has made my day. So from now on I make a special effort to look people in the eye and smile, wishing a lovely day to the cashiers in stores or just send messages of support to friends and colleagues. This gives me a rush of positive energy that helps me to get by. The same way you can make other's days a bit brighter too. Try it, why not?

I hope you enjoyed reading about my way of coping and please do share your tips with us too, it might help someone, you never know.

Remember, the pressure is on, it is up to us to steer ourselves out of all this sane, healthy and ready to take on the world when this is over.

In order to do that we need to look after ourselves even if it seems impossible on some days.

Author: Judit, Senior Therapist