Coping and Resilience in a Post-Pandemic World
The COVID-19 pandemic brought with it challenges that
may have caused us to feel anxious, depressed, stressed
or fatigued. While these are natural reactions, if they
persist they can weigh down on our mental and physical
well-being in the long run.
But don’t lose hope and don’t give up! Here are some
tips on how to channel your inner resilience, which we
all have, in order to cope with today’s post-pandemic
world.
Reach Out, You Are Not Alone
Do not hesitate to talk about what’s pulling you down
to family and friends who care for you, or seek out a
therapist. Seeking support and sharing troubles can be
very liberating as opposed to suppressing emotions. This
helps to identify what you are going through and that
you do not have to be alone in this struggle.
Accept and Move On Enumerate the things you have control over and those which are beyond your control. Then focus on that which is doable, and accept things which cannot be changed, like illness, job or financial losses. This recognition of the situation can actually grant a huge sense of relief and help figure out how to move on and take proactive steps in the given context.
Self-Compassion As you adapt to the upheavals which COVID brought with it, don’t be too hard on yourself. It is alright to take some time as you try to work with your new challenges. Prioritizing, being consistent, and making a daily routine can help simplify a seemingly complicated situation.
Gratitude Acknowledging things you are thankful for can help to appreciate the blessings taken for granted in life. This refreshes your perspective and helps replace negative thoughts.
Breathing and Mindfulness Practise calming breathing exercises, like pranayama or belly-breathing, when you feel stressed. Focussing on the present moment, or Mindfulness, can be developed by meditating or mindfully enjoying a relaxing activity like watching the sunrise, drinking a cup of coffee, or listening to the sounds of nature.
Unwind With Leisure Activities Connect with nature, read a book, play board games with the family, spend time with a pet, or pursue a hobby like cooking, gardening or some sport.
Exercise, Sleep and Healthy Food A brisk walk, jog or workout session releases happy hormones called endorphins, which can uplift the mood and help recharge and reinvent your approach to issues. Stick to a sleep routine so that you have the energy to face the challenges of the day. As your gut-health plays a vital part in determining your emotional well-being, avoid stress-eating and integrate soothing foods like yoghurt, fruits and vegetables, nuts and calming teas.
Accept and Move On Enumerate the things you have control over and those which are beyond your control. Then focus on that which is doable, and accept things which cannot be changed, like illness, job or financial losses. This recognition of the situation can actually grant a huge sense of relief and help figure out how to move on and take proactive steps in the given context.
Self-Compassion As you adapt to the upheavals which COVID brought with it, don’t be too hard on yourself. It is alright to take some time as you try to work with your new challenges. Prioritizing, being consistent, and making a daily routine can help simplify a seemingly complicated situation.
Gratitude Acknowledging things you are thankful for can help to appreciate the blessings taken for granted in life. This refreshes your perspective and helps replace negative thoughts.
Breathing and Mindfulness Practise calming breathing exercises, like pranayama or belly-breathing, when you feel stressed. Focussing on the present moment, or Mindfulness, can be developed by meditating or mindfully enjoying a relaxing activity like watching the sunrise, drinking a cup of coffee, or listening to the sounds of nature.
Unwind With Leisure Activities Connect with nature, read a book, play board games with the family, spend time with a pet, or pursue a hobby like cooking, gardening or some sport.
Exercise, Sleep and Healthy Food A brisk walk, jog or workout session releases happy hormones called endorphins, which can uplift the mood and help recharge and reinvent your approach to issues. Stick to a sleep routine so that you have the energy to face the challenges of the day. As your gut-health plays a vital part in determining your emotional well-being, avoid stress-eating and integrate soothing foods like yoghurt, fruits and vegetables, nuts and calming teas.