Ever since the entire country mandated everyone to stay at their homes as an effort to contain COVID-19, most of us had definitely made checking social media more a routine. That includes checking real time news as well regarding any updates about the contagious virus. Sadly, not everyone is mentally tough to handle the stress and anxiety brought by this global tragedy. Thus, here are some helpful exercises how to manage those worries away.

1. Acknowledge your emotions.

With all that’s happening around the world, acknowledging these overwhelming emotions is already half the battle. Allowing these emotions to flow through you is a big help in managing your stress.

2. Write down your fears and hopes.

Knowing that your fellow poverty-stricken countrymen are in a dire situation, feelings of remorse and helplessness will come, leaving you stressed. One of the best thing you can do is to scribble these thoughts. Writing these fears, hopes, and all these mixed emotions, make them valid and concrete, in a way.

3. Talk to someone.

While home quarantine is imposed as a safety measure, making use of social media by reaching out to your loved ones is vital. If you’re one of the strong ones, then letting your friends know that you’re there for them is more than just doing your part in our war against this disease.

4. Meditate.

I read a book about the wonders of meditating and ever since, I started spending five minutes after waking up to meditate. I try to think of the things I’m thankful for and clear my head. With what’s happening today, setting a positive mindset is crucial. Apps are also readily available such as Headspace, Calm and Insight Timer to get you started.

5. Do grounding exercises

Grounding exercises are mental exercises you can do to bring yourself into contact with the present moment. This includes daily activities we take for granted such as taking a walk or savoring the food we eat.

6. Write down what you’re grateful for

As an exercise, try to write five things you are grateful for every time you wake up. As much as possible, make it specific to the day like learning how to cook, watched that show you always wanted to watch, or even as simple as being in a home during this quarantine. Train your mind to always see the good amidst chaos.

Times like these, it is very important that we know how to manage such emotions. When we let such emotions go off the rails, panic would surely ensue, and panic is not a good start when it comes to making sound decisions. Always stay healthy, not just physically, but mentally too!

COVID-19 Cebu

As the threat of the Coronavirus 2019 or COVID-19 rises every day, the Cebu province has taken a proactive approach and is pulling all stops in protecting the island. Here’s everything you need to know about COVID-19 and its symptoms: https://sugbo.ph/2020/corona-virus-in-cebu/

With this, an Executive Order was issued for the implementation of the drastic but necessary measures to avoid the spread of the virus. For more information, head on to: https://sugbo.ph/2020/cebu-implements-drastic-measures/

If you are sick and think you have symptoms of COVID-19, seek medical attention, call the local Coronavirus Health Information Line for advice: 0922-397-2334 / 0943-568-3298 / (032) 402-3091 / (032) 402-1269.