Build Time for Self-Care into Your Schedule
The easing of lock-down restrictions has been a welcome development, especially with the arrival of summer. But we are still a long way from a return to normal. Guidelines for social distancing—not to mention worrying trends in coronavirus infection rates—could mean a delayed return to workplaces for those who are fortunate enough to work from home.
To be sure, there are benefits to working remotely. But it is harder to switch off when your office is in the next room. Without a clear transition between work and home, self-care can take a backseat—especially with kids in the mix. If you’re giving up that morning run to get an early start on your workday or your evening walk or answer one last email, then you may need to step back and recalibrate. After all, self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s essential for your health.
Here are five tips to ensure you’re taking the time to take care of you:
- Stay active. There is a wealth of research that proves activity is good for your physical and mental health. Whether it’s a short walk with the dog or 20 minutes on an elliptical machine, it’s important to get away from your desk and move. Not ready to return to your gym or fitness studio? You can still benefit from virtual classes and videos on everything from yoga routines to ab workouts.
- Unplug every day. Having trouble turning your work brain off? Then try tuning in to guided meditation. Guided meditation apps are available for everything from reducing stress to sleeping better. It may take a few tries before you get the hang of it—but when you do, you’ll find it can help you feel restored, refreshed, and ready to take on your daily challenges.
- Set a schedule. You’d think that working from home would provide plenty of time for self-care, but that’s not always the case. If you find your days are getting away from you, try setting a schedule for physical activity or meditation. Of course, even the best-laid plans are subject to failure. When your schedule gets upended, take advantage of pockets of free time for a workout or reflection.
- Be flexible. Don’t let guilt get in the way of your health. Remember that one of the benefits of working remotely is that you can build your own schedule (within reason). If you feel bad about taking an hour out of the workday to focus on self-care, keep in mind the time can be made up elsewhere. Or, consider scheduling your workout or meditation for your most unproductive time of day, so that you are at your best when you’re at your desk.
- Socialize, from a distance. Sure, online happy hours and trivia nights have enabled us to maintain meaningful social connections. But there is nothing like meeting with friends and family in person for improving your mental health. Many restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and other gathering spaces have strict measures in place to maintain social distancing. If you don’t feel safe yet dining out, consider meeting with friends in an outdoor space where you can maintain distance—perhaps a hike, or simply gathering on someone’s deck for appetizers and drinks.
At Miller-Valentine, we’re focused on providing our Associates, trade partners, and clients with the support they need to stay productive and healthy in a changing landscape.
Have any questions about how we can help solve your construction challenges? Contact us today at 877.684.7687 or info@mvg.com.
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