I've been relatively content since my self-imposed isolation started on March 11, 2020. That's not to say that I haven't had some moments of anxiety, worry, frustration, or fear of boredom (but only
fear.) I am trying my best to stay well-informed by listening to only reputable sources: my Indiana State Department of Health and the CDC. I highly respect Dr. Fauci and Dr. Birx; and usually watch the re-caps of their reports rather than the whole Daily Virus Briefing.
However, I have heard some stories of others having struggles with this catastrophic event in our lives which is highly unusual and highly incomprehensible! If you are the parent in a household, the caretaker for a family member, or a single person living alone, it is essential that you take some time to care for yourself to restore your strength and energy! I want to share some ideas for Self-Care that I have used, as well as others I have heard are helpful.
TOP TEN SUGGESTIONS FOR SELF-CARE:
1- Exercise daily-A vigorous walk for thirty minutes in sunshine or the cold will do it. Remember: "There is no bad weather only bad clothing! Attrib: Rita Nathanson
2-Cook a recipe each week that you have been meaning to try.
3-Plan ahead when ordering groceries on line for pick-up and delivery. Even though it is in your cart, it may not be available the the same day or available at all. Expectations breed resentment! Go with the flow and please don't hoard ~ we are all in this together!
4-Creativity lifts the spirits. Adult coloring books and jigsaw puzzles take some concentration and can take your mind off of the virus. Do them with your kids. Don't forget that crochet or knit project that has been stuffed in the back of the closet for years! It's time to revitalize an old skill. They are called WIPs (Works in Progress)!
I started this afghan fromm Art Crochet Blankets by Rachele Carmona in January and finished it in April 2020.
5. There are many patterns on line for quarantine masks; some don't require a sewing machine. if there is a need in your community, volunteer to make some masks for those who are working to keep us healthy.
Video instructions for no-sew mask on YouTube.
6-Google some Moms' Blogs or podcasts to get unique ideas for your kids when they have completed their online studies.
7-Add the free "WhatsApp" to your phone and invite friends who are near or far to do so also. It is an easy way to connect and share visually. Call a friend who you haven't talked to in months; you'll be happy you did.
8- Missing your younger grandchildren terribly? Tell them about "Messenger Kids. It is a version of the Facebook Messenger app specifically crafted to give kiddos under the age of 13 a secure, parent-controlled space in which to communicate with their family members and friends It's fun to hear from them and a good way for them to practice spelling and writing. Be aware, you may just get emojis from them! LOL!
9- Clean a closet or kitchen drawer. Goodwill and other re-sale charities are still asking for donations and you can drive-by to drop it off. Just practice physical distancing ALWAYS! I've decided I am allergic to wool so I have separated most of it from my stash and will donate to Re-Craft Indianapolis.
10-Have you procrastinated on a task for years? Now is the time ~ all we have is time! Pull it out and get busy!
I often procrastinate once I have an idea for an artsy crochet project. I'm crocheting with wire that will climb up this "faux wood thing" I found it in a craft resale shop when in Portland Oregon for the CGOA crochet conference in 2018. We'll all have to wait to see how it turns out!
I hope you will try some of my ideas for maintaining sanity during this trying time! Even better, I'll look forward to hearing about things you have tried! STAY SAFE!!
fear.) I am trying my best to stay well-informed by listening to only reputable sources: my Indiana State Department of Health and the CDC. I highly respect Dr. Fauci and Dr. Birx; and usually watch the re-caps of their reports rather than the whole Daily Virus Briefing.
However, I have heard some stories of others having struggles with this catastrophic event in our lives which is highly unusual and highly incomprehensible! If you are the parent in a household, the caretaker for a family member, or a single person living alone, it is essential that you take some time to care for yourself to restore your strength and energy! I want to share some ideas for Self-Care that I have used, as well as others I have heard are helpful.
TOP TEN SUGGESTIONS FOR SELF-CARE:
1- Exercise daily-A vigorous walk for thirty minutes in sunshine or the cold will do it. Remember: "There is no bad weather only bad clothing! Attrib: Rita Nathanson
2-Cook a recipe each week that you have been meaning to try.
Vegetable Hash with Eggs |
3-Plan ahead when ordering groceries on line for pick-up and delivery. Even though it is in your cart, it may not be available the the same day or available at all. Expectations breed resentment! Go with the flow and please don't hoard ~ we are all in this together!
4-Creativity lifts the spirits. Adult coloring books and jigsaw puzzles take some concentration and can take your mind off of the virus. Do them with your kids. Don't forget that crochet or knit project that has been stuffed in the back of the closet for years! It's time to revitalize an old skill. They are called WIPs (Works in Progress)!
Layered Waves |
Made for Downtown Doggie Daycare |
Video instructions for no-sew mask on YouTube.
6-Google some Moms' Blogs or podcasts to get unique ideas for your kids when they have completed their online studies.
7-Add the free "WhatsApp" to your phone and invite friends who are near or far to do so also. It is an easy way to connect and share visually. Call a friend who you haven't talked to in months; you'll be happy you did.
8- Missing your younger grandchildren terribly? Tell them about "Messenger Kids. It is a version of the Facebook Messenger app specifically crafted to give kiddos under the age of 13 a secure, parent-controlled space in which to communicate with their family members and friends It's fun to hear from them and a good way for them to practice spelling and writing. Be aware, you may just get emojis from them! LOL!
9- Clean a closet or kitchen drawer. Goodwill and other re-sale charities are still asking for donations and you can drive-by to drop it off. Just practice physical distancing ALWAYS! I've decided I am allergic to wool so I have separated most of it from my stash and will donate to Re-Craft Indianapolis.
10-Have you procrastinated on a task for years? Now is the time ~ all we have is time! Pull it out and get busy!
Faux wood decor I found in a resale shop |
Wire crochet I am fitting into the "well." |
28 gauge wire; size 2 crochet hook |
I hope you will try some of my ideas for maintaining sanity during this trying time! Even better, I'll look forward to hearing about things you have tried! STAY SAFE!!
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