Don't Panic: 15 Ways to Relax and be Productive Even While Locked Down
There are many reasons to feel anxious and panicky, especially given the current state of affairs in the world. But, when panic and stress become a daily problem, it reflects on your health. This is why relaxing, and taking time off is so important.
Free yourself: relax your mind and body
Scientific studies show that when people spend time in nature or with family, it significantly lowers stress levels. You’d also see that people often prefer exercising outside. By doing this, they’re getting the best of fitness and lowering stress levels.
Life can be challenging. So try to relax by using these 15 pointers.
#1 Set some goals
We are all locked down and this can be very depressing. Try to make the most out of the situation by investing in yourself.
Start by setting some personal goals. Maybe you were passionate about something but didn’t always have enough time for it. Or maybe you thought about starting a side-job to help supplement your finances, or about learning a special cooking course, setting goals could help. Think of your goals as a way of stimulating your mind and staying on track with positive change.
#2 Learn how to play an instrument
Learning to play an instrument can be challenging, but a fun one. You could try learning to play an instrument that you’ve always fancied. The more you learn, the better you’ll feel, and what’s more, you’ll be able to play it as a pastime.
#3 Take an online course
“Knowledge is power” as the popular saying goes, and what better way to extend your knowledge than to learn even more. Try learning a new language, or taking a short course. There are plenty of free courses online, whether you want to be the next master chef, or you simply love DIY crafts.
To make things even better, you’ll have access to your course at your own pace and time. There’s no pressure or set curriculum. This can be a wonderful and productive strategy.
#4 Catch up on reading
While you’re at home, your employer might have you working fewer hours until things change. You will also save time and energy you would spend on commuting. If you have more free time on your hands, then why not spend it on reading your favourite author’s stories?
Reading has a wealth of benefits for your health. It helps to increase your vocabulary, stimulates your brain, and it is also therapeutic.
#5 Make yourself a mood board
Mood boards are some of the best sources of inspiration. On it, you can create and add all the things you’d like to achieve and do. This may include long-term and short-term goals. That said, go ahead and customise it the way you want.
After creating your mood board, have a look at it every day and take in those positive goals that you want to accomplish. This will instil that drive to get it.
#6 Do you have a bucket list?
If you don’t have a bucket list, your time at home is enough to create one. So, everyone wants to see a few places and do some things before they depart from earth, your bucket list should have yours jotted down.
Think about all your ambitions and experiences you’d want to enjoy. Make these all part of your bucket list.
#7 Listen to music
Sometimes just listening to your favourite music is enough to let you feel more relaxed and happier. Even if you’re working, listening to some music might increase your productivity.
#8 Have more water
Staying hydrated is very important. Going with too little water a day could leave you feeling moody, overwhelmed, and exhausted. Drink 8 glasses of water a day, and start feeling the difference. Water is an excellent source of hydration plus the human body is made up of 60% of H2O.
#9 Get some fresh air
Staying cooped up indoors can lead to depression and anxiety. Even if you can’t go far because of the pandemic, just get out a bit. Whether you’re going to spend some time in your garden, or go for a run, the fresh air and sun will do your body good.
#10 Take a 5 minute breather
Take a break at least 3 times a day for 5 minutes of breathing exercises. Breathing exercises can help to lower stress hormones making you feel relaxed. It is also great if you want to refresh your mind, and give your eyes a break from the computer screen.
#11 Walk your dog
If you’re looking for a reason to go outside, then take your canine friend out for a bit.
When walking your dog you'll enjoy a low-impact workout plus it's good exercise for your doggo friend.
If you don’t have a dog then take a walk by yourself. Some people prefer listening to music while they take a stroll, or simply going for a quick run.
#12 Have a power nap
Power naps are powerful “recharging techniques,” despite that they are so short. They give you the boost you need to continue a long day. Don’t nap for longer than 20 minutes though, otherwise it won’t work as a power nap. Sleeping for a short time could help reduce stress and improve the quality of sleep at night.
#13 Change your setting
If you’ve been sitting at the same desk, at the same computer for as long as you can remember, then maybe it’s time for a change. Changing your surroundings will have a positive effect on your productivity and mood.
#14 Bring nature into your home/office
We already know that nature has an amazing way of “lifting” us up when we’re feeling blue. With this in mind, why not introduce your decor to plants and flowers. Bringing nature into your home or office will help lighten your mood, and help you feel more relaxed.
#15 Enjoy a massage
Stiff muscles are often the result of poor posture. It can be debilitating depending on the severity of the pain. Self-massage is a good way to help soothe sore and stiff muscles. You could also opt for a spa day experience, and just soak up the soothing elements that go with it.
Conclusion for relaxing and being productive during lockdown
It’s important to maintain a work-life balance. Very often, when too busy, it can lead to burnout because of a lack of rest. Some people may also complain about pains and aches in their body that only started rearing its head when they started working from home.
Finding that balance will ensure productivity, and a better, healthier you.