Self-Care in the Time of COVID-19

Right now our new normal is anything but. And now more than ever, it’s important for our mental health, diabetes management, and physical health, to practice self-care. I’ve noticed that my blood sugars aren’t as tight as I’d like them to be, and I know why.

Stress, anxiety, less working out, and more stress eating, thanks to our COVID-19/coronavirus world. I needed to practice self-care while sheltering in place, and that’s what I started to do.

Tips for self-care during COVID-19

Here are some helpful tips when it comes to self-care:

Acknowledge my fears

I acknowledge out loud and to myself that what’s happening is scary and difficult, and I allow myself to grieve.

Keeping in touch with loved ones

I’m keeping in touch with my family (including my diabetes family), and friends via phone calls, texting, Skype calls, and Zoom get-togethers. I am the recipient and/or sender of daily “check-in” texts with friends and loved ones.


Therapy

Luckily for me, my therapist does Skype sessions and I’ve reached out when I’ve needed a tune-up.

Mindfulness

I participate in a free weekly online mindfulness meditation Zoom meeting that my local yoga studio is offering. There are excellent mindfulness apps out there that offer similar experiences.

Moving

Working out has been limited because of sheltering in place and social distancing. And lack of movement impacts both my blood sugars and waistline. I began working out with 3 lb. hand weights every morning for 20 minutes and started backyard workouts in the form of gardening; jumping jacks, lunges, running in place and my favorite - free online dance workouts. 20 minutes of dancing helps your body and your mind feel better!

Decompressing

Relaxing, napping, reading a book, or watching a movie allows my body and mind to decompress.

Community

I continue to connect with my diabetes online community via social media platforms!