So, the Corona virus is here! As we go through this unprecedented situation, many of us have had to make major changes in our schedules and our kids’ schedules. Many people are anxious (reflected in all the missing toilet paper at stores and hand sanitizer seemingly becoming precious gems!), for many parents stuck at home, cabin fever is already setting in.
Being stuck at home with kids if you aren’t used to that can be a very trying experience. Of course, things could be worse and is worse for some out there who are actually infected and attempting to recover.
For the rest of us though, we have to find some way to get through the next few weeks (months ?!!) sanity intact. As expected conflict is being stirred up between parents and their kids as they try to get through the worst stay at home vacation ever conceived! However, things are also popping off between spouses with one or both parents being forced to stay home all day with the kids. It’s like an extended road trip with no end in sight, aggravation sets in!
So, what can we do in unprecedented times like these? Many will be tempted to simply binge watch tv or spend countless hours on social media. Though there’s nothing wrong with enjoying some time on these platforms, spending countless hours doing these things can easily backfire.
Outside of the fact that social media for many has become a treasure trove of fear mongering, we know from studies that continuous use of social media, TV or video games can make you more anxious and depressed, so moderation is key! Instead we need to do daily practices that improve our mental health not simply occupy our time.
Spending a few minutes, a day doing mindfulness/relaxation activities can provide significant benefit:
Apps like Calm, Breethe and Headspace are easy to use and helpful. They have brief deep breathing exercises, guided meditations and other mindfulness-based exercises.
Get your kids doing some kids yoga exercises on Youtube like this one here.
Of course, prayer can be of significant help and meditating on soothing/calming scriptures can go a long way towards helping us having a healthier view of our situation! Check out this guided meditation here!
No matter what you choose to do, do something healthy for yourself and your kids. The effort put out in these areas will go a long way towards us all getting through this situation, mental health intact!
