Over the decades and centuries, our world has seen many horrific situations and tragedies occur, natural disasters to serious terrorist attacks; devastating wars to the climate crisis. However, over recent weeks, we have all had to come together as a planet to face a new enemy, in the form of a novel coronavirus: Covid-19.
Photo, Ashkan Forouzani.
In the space of just a few weeks, terror has been struck into the hearts of billions of people around the world, with hundreds of thousands already infected and tens of thousands losing their lives. The situation is expected to continue getting worse, and at a very rapid pace. It comes, therefore, as no surprise that so many of us are under immense stress and anxiety. Not only are we worried for ourselves, but also our vulnerable loved ones, who may be at an even higher risk of falling victim to this virus and its resulting illness.
While it is a very difficult time for all, it is important for people to be mentally ready in order to get through this period and to reduce anxiety and stress; especially when so many of us are living in a lockdown situation. One thing that everyone needs to do, is to ensure they are getting adequate sleep.
It is all too easy to miss out on sleep when worry and stress are at high levels, which means your physical health and mental wellbeing will suffer. The importance of sleep on your wellbeing cannot be underlined enough. If sleeping through stressful times is difficult for you, products like CBD capsules can help regulate your sleep, and also have the welcome side-effect of relieving stress and reducing anxiety; something many could use in this situation.
Photo, Kinga Cichewicz.
Another thing you need to do is to ensure you are up to date on everything that is going on, and that you keep yourself abreast of the latest changes. If you have no idea what you are supposed to be doing and why you are doing it, the situation can become even more stressful. Naturally, at present, situations are changing on a day to day basis, so you need to try and keep on top of things. However, be mindful not to fall into a rabbit hole—getting the right information is helpful, but reading first-hand stories of illness can only serve to heighten anxiety. You need to ensure you are following the advice given, as this is what will help to keep you and your loved ones safe, but not get bogged down with doom and gloom.
Getting adequate exercise is also an important part of reducing stress and anxiety, but you may be very limited with regard to what you can and cannot do due to lockdown rules. So, look at ways you can exercise at home such as following online classes, using a dance DVD, or even taking a walk around your garden. It is important to stay active for health reasons, and exercise also boosts endorphin release, which will lift the mood and reduce anxiety.
While there is no doubt that this is one of the most challenging times most of us have ever been through, you can make things easier on yourself by taking steps to reduce stress and anxiety. The tips above will help you to do this with greater ease.
