Practicing Self Care While Social Distancing

  1. Stick to a Routine
    Go to sleep & wake up at a reasonable time; write a schedule that is varied and includes time for school work and self-care. Continue to use your planner, or use a free resource such as this to write out your daily schedule for each day.
  2. Dress for the social life you want
    Dress for the social life you want, not the social life you have. Shower each day, get dressed in comfortable clothes. Take the time to do your hair and makeup; put on some bright colors. It is amazing the impact our dress has on our mood.
  3. Take time for 30-30-30
    You are likely living in close quarters; spending more time inside with people than you are used to. Put aside 90 minutes each day for critical self-care.
    Make sure to spend 30 minutes per day on each of the following activities:

    1. Going outside to get fresh air 
    2. Move your body 
    3. Connect with friends using FaceTime, Skype, or Zoom
  4. Stay Hydrated + Eat Well
    Just like sticking to a schedule, remembering to fuel your body with nutritious foods and drink plenty of water is critical to physically feeling your best. While at home, it is easy to forget to drink water and graze from the kitchen all day. Plan out your meals and snacks and try new recipes and food!
  5. Find the Helpers
    Mr. Rogers is known for saying: “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” Remember to look for those that are helping; and where you are able be a helper. Check on elderly neighbors and those that live alone, see if you can do their grocery shopping or other errands.
  6. Find space for work & relaxation
    Space is at a premium; especially if more people are at home then you are used to. Be considerate of others space needs and use a schedule for private space for video calls that require use of a specific space. Allow everyone in your home to have a space they can go to retreat and spend time alone. Respect the boundaries others need to recharge, and ask others to respect yours.

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Adapted From: Eileen M Feliciano, Psy.D.o, Psy.D.

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