Sometimes it’s hard to remember just how long it’s been since we lived in a “normal” world. Lockdowns have eased in many regions, but some people are still quarantining voluntarily and as virus spikes continue to occur across the United States, it’s likely that more states will begin to roll back their reopening plans.

Staying locked down for so long isn’t easy, especially for people who are used to an active and vibrant life outside of the home. If you’re starting to feel the effects of the lockdown on your mental health, then you’re far from alone.

It’s important to create routines, practices, and coping methods to help you get through the lockdown while staying mentally and physically healthy. Here are some tips for staying happy and healthy for as long as the lockdown lasts.

Practicing Yoga Can Help Give a Boost in Physical & Mental Health

If you’ve never tried yoga before (or if you’ve given up on it in the past), then now is the time to get started. Yoga is a great way to pair exercise with meditation and to emphasize the mind-body connection. It is used to help treat many mental health disorders, including PTSD, but can have massive benefits for just about anyone who wants to boost their mental health. Plus, it can be done anywhere, with very little equipment!

During yoga practice, there is a lot of focus on the breath. Taking some time to step away from your daily responsibilities, stressors, and worries, and to focus on your body and your breathing is a great way to help regulate your mood and mental health. Yoga is highly accessible and can be tailored to suit every fitness level.

It’s best to practice every day for an ongoing boost in physical and mental health, but remember that something is better than nothing. Try to fit in a yoga session at least a few times a week to see the benefits!

Taking Care of Physical = Taking Care of Mental Health             

During the lockdown, it’s extremely important to avoid making sedentary routines. Getting enough exercise isn’t just good for your body: it’s good for your mind. According to the Mayo Clinic, exercise can help to reduce anxiety and boost your mood.

Exercise is also a great excuse to get outside and enjoy the sunshine, which can further boost your mood. It’s very easy to just sit around all day when you’re trying to stay safe, but the long-term implications of not getting enough physical activity can be extremely serious.

When exercising outdoors, try to avoid going to places where there will be crowds. Wear a mask when you can’t distance adequately. And don’t forget to use sunscreen to protect your skin! There are also many types of exercise you can do inside when the weather is bad or it’s too hot to go outside. No matter how you do it, though, exercise is beneficial for your overall health, including your mental well-being.

No Need to be Locked Up: Take Advantage of Telehealth! 

It can be scary to go out and seek medical care right now, whether you need to have surgery or talk to a mental health professional. The good news is that many healthcare services can be administered via telehealth, rather than having patients visit an office or hospital.

If you think you could benefit from sessions with a therapist, you have options. We’ve never had so many opportunities for mental healthcare online before, and the pandemic could be creating a lasting shift in how we deliver healthcare services in the future, with an emphasis on telehealth when possible.

Many therapists are taking their appointments online at the moment. If your mental health is suffering due to the lockdown, then it may be time to find a therapist you “click” with, without leaving the house.

Make Sure You Prioritize Sleep Too

Staying mentally healthy while your awake starts with the quality of your sleep. It’s easy to lose track of your sleep schedule when your day takes place within the same four walls, but it’s essential to prioritize sleep if you want to maintain your mental health.

Sleep impacts our mental and physical health, and everything we do. If you’re not getting enough sleep, then it may be time to create a new bedtime routine and sleep schedule. Your mood will improve if you get enough shut-eye!

Lockdown is tough, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Stick with the essentials: exercise, sleep, a healthy diet, and safe social interaction. Those are key factors for staying mentally healthy!