The new normal of living during this COVID-19 pandemic has exposed many challenges that most people did not expect to face. It has changed many aspects of the everyday life such as altering the ways how to work, socialize, shop, exercise, study and even think. Staying healthy even before the pandemic hit has been already a struggle for many, but focusing on your personal health while trying to cope up in the new way of living will help you survive in this crisis.
A year ago, everything was normal. Hanging out with friends, shopping at the mall whenever you need, going to school and working without worry, planning travels, attending social gatherings and sleeping better with less anxiety are just few of the things that people enjoy doing in their lives before the COVID-19 pandemic. While it may take some time to go back to these life’s routines, individuals now need to face the reality of the “new normal” which includes social distancing, wearing of masks when going out, communicating online, and practicing handwashing and sanitation. This sudden global shift has impacted not only the everyday life that people used to live but also affected the overall health and well-being as feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, grief and isolation are widespread.
It is okay to grieve and to feel overwhelmed during this uncertain time, however, it should be taken into consideration to take care of yourself each day. Taking care of your health is essential now more than ever to ensure a strong immune system to fight-off the virus. Being healthy does not only mean taking care of your physical health but also includes taking care of your emotional, social, spiritual and intellectual health. In order to achieve the overall personal health, none of these aspects must be neglected. Practice self-care through limiting the time you spend watching the news, scrolling through social media and talking about the pandemic. Use this time to explore some helpful coping tools and diversions. Try breathing exercises, meditation or prayer, music and arts to relax your mind and soul. Have some more quality time with your family and schedule a phone or video call with your friends, coworkers and spiritual advisers to share your feelings and needs. And finally, have a healthy and immune system boosting routine that focuses on good nutrition and hydration, adequate sleep, exercise, relaxation and stress reduction.
Do what you can, be kind to yourself and others while everyone is trying to cope up with this new normal. Adjusting to this sudden change may be challenging but try to survive this change the best you can without neglecting your health and well-being.
NO I Angelica O. Pajulas
