Social distancing has commenced and many are feeling a bit overwhelmed. I’m an introvert and the thought of a social quarantine puts me in an unusually happy place. Well…if I’m quarantined without the virus. But for you extroverts, you may sense a struggling future if you are not already.
I read several articles this past weekend that highlighted the effects that isolation leaves on your body and brain. As much as introverts would admit, extended periods of isolation affect us all. This ultimately presents an opportunity for anxiety, depression and lack of physical activity.
So what do you do to keep yourself sane during social distancing?
My immediate inclination was to share all the things that keep me happy as an introvert cooped in the house. However, I am in no way convinced that I could turn you extroverts into introverts. So here are some ways we can all thrive:
Eat Healthy Foods
If your local grocery store has restocked from the panic shopping, get some healthy foods. Toilet tissue and water is definitely essential, but use this time to develop a new eating habit or continue one. Fruits and vegetables will provide energy and alertness that your body will need during this time. Typically, the busyness of work-life balance prevent us from taking time to cook preferable meals, so let’s use this as an opportunity!
Explore Some New Pastimes
Old or new, what are some things that you genuinely enjoy doing? Take a break from Instagram and Twitter and explore what you like to do to pass the time. Here are some great suggestions:
- Read a book series
- Crochet a blanket
- Create digital designs
- Work Out
- Draw or paint new artwork
- Rejuvenate the garden
Plan Ahead
Ideally, this isolation period won’t last beyond summer. Take this time to look at your calendar and plan ahead. Whether that’s future travel or even future work plans, you have this time to get a head start on organizing your future plans.
Keep a Journal
Imagine telling your grandchildren or future generations to come about this pandemic and how you made it through. This is the perfect time to start a journal if you don’t have one and keep a record of your experience. Here are some prompting questions for your daily entries:
- What are you feeling?
- What are the new pandemic updates?
- How is the government responding?
- How is your community responding?
- Are you or someone you know affecting by the virus?
- What have you done to be socially distant?
Memorize Scripture
If you’re a believer reading this post, this time may bring about some fear. The best way to combat fear is with the truth.God’s Word gives us the power to see Him and His nature clearly and combat our fears and anxiety. I challenge all believers to choose a few verses that speak against your fears and commit them to memory. Here are some that I help me:
- Isaiah 41: 10
- Luke 12:22
- Philippians 4: 6-7
- Psalm 34:4
- Matthew 11:28-30
- Psalm 55:22
FaceTime
Living in the digital age definitely has its perks. Be intentional with connecting with family and friends because the work flow or busyness of life has slowed down. And you can even see their face! Extroverts, you can win with this one.
Netflix Party
Netflix just released a new feature that allows you to watch your friends by synchronizing the playback video. There’s even a live chat during the video. Start a Netflix Party and enjoy your binging with your closest friends.
What are you doing during this state of isolation? Leave a comment below!
hope this soon is over :/
funny tips 🙂