Surviving Quarantine Or Isolation

When people are put into quarantine or isolation, the reactions differ slightly but most people end up in similarly bleak situations. The battle between the mind, body, and spirit can be very intense. Negativity will always try to creep in but a stronger mindset can help maintain the body and encourage the spirit.

Which is why through the experiences of professionals and regular people, I've looked into tips that can help retain some sanity for everyone while being forced to work-from-home.

1. Wake up early and sleep early.

When you let your morning routine slip, you risk losing control of your life. Maintaining a balanced and normal schedule is important to consistent sleeping habits that energizes you during your rest instead of stress you out with worry and fear. Try to keep to your usual habits and if you slip, don't make a habit of it. Sleeping early ensures no midnight cravings or temptations that can get you into trouble. Stay on track and make healthy choices for your body. Just because you don't seem to do as much during the day doesn't mean you can skip sleeping.

2. Eat healthy EVERY meal.

What you put in your body is more important than ever when you aren't moving as much and aren't allowed to move around as much. Within a limited space to live and breathe, people tend to keep their normal eating habits which leads to faster weight gain. So think about your activity and eat accordingly; smaller meals with less sugar and processed ingredients. Be healthy for the you tomorrow for the future ahead.

3. Set a routine for yourself.

If you can't keep it in your head, write it down and stick it on the wall close to you. Make as many copies as you need so there is accountability for your actions, reminders for your responsibilities, and goals for personal growth. Sign up for online seminars and classes or make appointments and keep them. Think about yourself and grow yourself without hesitation, fear, and anxiety. All we can do is improve ourselves during this time alone.

Start with making your bed every morning. Fold the blankets or move them to cover the bed nicely. Stack the pillows and body pillows. Turn off unneeded electronics to save energy. Don't keep the water running longer than you need to in order to save on the water bill. Get dressed for the day, don't just stay in pajamas all day. Work for your comfort and success like you want it. Don't slack off just because no one is there to see you or check up on you. Create the reality for yourself.

4. Set time to move your body.

Personally, I am physically limited but I still manage three 20-minute planned low-pressure workouts during each day. I used to do it twice a day but with more time stuck at home, adding another or two workout sessions has kept my energy up, mental strength going, and physical release of stress continuously helping you stay less moody.

5. Talk on the phone or video-chat with at least one person a day.

It's so easy to forget to socialize ourselves. But, like all living and breathing lifeforms on earth, we are not meant to be alone. In a time when we are forced into our homes and our outings are restricted, hearing the voice of someone else and seeing their face even on a screen can help aliviate our anxieties and loneliness. There are always methods to feel that connection we crave and rely on for survival. But sometimes, we have to make it happen on our own.

6. Write out your thoughts somewhere.

If you're not a fan of recording your thoughts and feelings in a journal or diary, blog online or write letters to friends, family, and to yourself. There are times when the build-up within just gets too intense and it breaks down the functions of the rest of your body and your world. If you can't physically let it out, verbally let it out on paper as art or writings or digitally in a word document or an email to yourself. It's not a time where you need to rely on someone else to maintain balance in your mind, body, spirit, and soul. In this time, use what is available to you to explore deeper into your emotions, feelings, thoughts, and ideas. Give in to being more selfish and grow that talent while you are alone. Who knows where it will lead you?

The important part in all of this is to set up your life for success. Don't give up or be discouraged in your failures and short comings. You're human and it's part of life. Learn and grow from it, and make the right choices so you can change to prevent further mistakes, distractions, temptations, and failures.

Do this for yourself. Do this for your success. And do this for your future. Because if you don't do this, no one will or can do it for you.