Stuck in the work-from-home grind? Consider this your survival guide for self-care.
Most of us are spending a lot more time at home than usual, which comes with pros and cons (am I right?). On a positive note, we are finally realizing a lot of in-person meetings can be done over an email or call; we have more time with close family—in my case, my boyfriend and his family; and we can wear sweatpants all day every day. All these things have been great; however, sometimes it’s tough to keep focused, and I’ve started missing time to myself (even the morning commute). And I’ve basically forgotten how to dress in public. Adjusting to the #WFH thing has had its difficulties, but I’ve discovered that a few small but impactful adjustments can go a long way toward helping me get in the groove. Here are some of my tips on how I stay centered, healthy and sane while doing basically everything at home.
Create a positive morning routine. I truly believe how you start your morning sets the tone for the rest of the day. Instead of reaching for your phone, take even as little as 10 to 15 minutes to yourself. Hydrate with water with lemon, practice gratitude, read a few pages of a book—or, if this is all a little too Zen, spend a few minutes cleaning up the space you’ll be working in. Clutter can subconsciously create more stress, so by putting things away, you’ll find yourself feeling instantly lighter and have more energy to get through your to-do list.
Create a schedule and to-do lists. Working from home can be great since you can wear PJs and save time on commuting—but it can also create a gray area that causes us to either not work efficiently or end up working overtime. Create a schedule, make a to-do list in the beginning of the week or each day, and follow it as much as you can. There are things you must get done and there are things that can be done. Acknowledge the difference and don’t burn yourself out. You don’t need to be working till 9pm every day just because you’re working from home.
And speaking of PJs, as easy and comfortable as they are, sometimes it’s helpful to dress the part. Showing “up” to work dressed as if you were going to the office can instantly give you more motivation and drive to get it done. When you feel good, you do good, so take a shower and put on a nice outfit for your Zoom meetings or just yourself!
Get some movement in. You don’t need a gym or a trainer yelling at you to move your body. Movement or working out improves your mood, your health and your overall well-being (and it’s a chance to have some you time), so don’t skip it. Get outside for a power walk, grab a mat and do a virtual class, or jump rope on your terrace while listening to your favorite tunes. The best part is no one is going to see if you mess up. If you need some inspo, join me on my app for workouts, recipes and wellness tips to optimize your well-being at home.
Lastly, don’t forget to breathe. You’re doing great! I think most of us actually forget to really breathe throughout the day. Take a moment to practice deep breathing and reconnecting with yourself. I like the 4-7-8 technique. Breathe in for 4… hold for 7… exhale slowly for 8… repeat! This can help relieve anxiety and stress.
Extra tip: Stock up on cold-pressed juices or fruits/veggies to make your own midmorning pick-me-up smoothie or juice loaded with nutritious vitamins. Organic Krush in Amagansett has some great options!
