How to Handle Day-To-Day Monotony

These past few months have been difficult in so many ways. You might find yourself asking, “How do I keep on keeping on?” We are all sick of being cooped up at home. Being cooped up is not good for our brains. We are not made to be sitting in our house all day, away from natural light and the outdoors. We are made for working, adventuring, doing and creating. Instead, we have been stuck inside watching Netflix, staring at the same four walls with the same people around us. How do we deal with the day-to-day doldrums?

It’s okay to struggle

We all need to recognize that this is hard. It is okay to admit to yourself that you are struggling and that this time is difficult. Every day is its own small trauma, and you are mourning the loss of your life as it once was. Allowing ourselves to mourn properly is critical.

And there is no “right way” to grieve. Everyone does it differently, and that is okay. There is not a certain time frame in which you have to be “over” the situation. Some move faster, while others take longer to grieve. It is important to understand that your process will be unique, and that it’s okay to seek support.

How do we find purpose?

My wife has taken it upon herself to write a new Bible study for our church. She is meditating and praying so that she can craft this Bible study. I have found a purpose in doing my Facebook Live events, filming videos and writing articles to help others during this time. My daughter-in-law’s mother made reusable cloth masks for family and friends. What can you do to find purpose during this time of uncertainty? Call your loved ones, send letters or bake cookies for your neighbors. Find what you are talented at, or what you are called to do, and do it! Use your skills and desires to help society and the people in your community.

And Mother’s Day is just around the corner, so put those newfound skills to use for her! For many of us, the normal Mother’s Day routine is in complete upheaval. There will be no lunch dates, no movie theaters and nothing even as simple as a family get together. But your mom would probably love to see what you’ve been working on in quarantine. Have you gotten into baking? Take a crack at making her favorite treat, and send it to her. Started trying to teach yourself how to play guitar? Send her a video of you (attempting) to play her a little song. Despite being stuck at home, there are many things that we can do to still feel connected and bring each other comfort.

Get off the couch!

You have heard it over and over again, I’m sure.  But it is crucial to  get up, shower, exercise, eat healthy and continue to do the things that you know are best for you. If you sit on the couch binging television shows, you will feel lethargic. And if you are struggling to make healthier choices on your own, having accountability with a friend or spouse can be helpful. Find a plan that works for you, such as exercising three times a week together – even if you’re doing it together over a video call. My wife has been incredible at getting me to exercise. We do yoga, go on bike rides and do exercise classes in our home. Go on a bike ride with a friend and stay six feet apart. The stay at home order has not stopped us from going on walks, and if feels good to get some fresh air and sunlight. Read a book, clean your living space or literally anything else that makes you feel good and productive. Do what you know will make you proud, and celebrate the little victories.

Finding a balance, making sure you are taking care of your body and mind, and doing what is best for you and those around you is the most important thing right now. However, this is easier said than done, but it is important to know that you are not alone. We’re here to help. Even in these times of social distancing and stay at home orders, Stenzel Clinical Services is offering telehealth sessions with over 40 therapists to help support you during this time. Contact us to get started.