Self-care and wellness are things that we don't always think about. Especially when you have a physical illness like Covid-19, your mental wellbeing can fall by the wayside. However, it is important to remind yourself that your mental health is just as important as your physical health. The two are interconnected and, importantly, our mind needs to be trained and looked after just like our body does.
In this blog, we will be sharing with you some simple wellness practices that can help boost your wellbeing and happiness if you are currently self-isolating.
The Impact of Social Isolation on Health and Wellbeing
Human beings are herd animals. Although social isolation is not always bad – with most people craving solitude at least sometimes – it is very natural to feel lonely when away from other humans. We want those who are self-isolating to first recognise that it is completely normal to feel as if you are struggling.
Social isolation is known to cause low moods and energy levels, impair cognitive function, inhibit sleep, and much more. If you are entering self-isolation with pre-existing mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, these negative effects may be exaggerated. In severe cases, we strongly urge you to call your local NHS urgent mental health helpline.
Wellness Tips During Self-Isolation
Self-care is an individual experience; everyone has different needs when it comes to keeping themselves mentally and physically healthy. Below you can find our advice on how to maintain your wellbeing as well as a range of wellness practices that you can implement day-to-day. Hopefully, we can (at least partially) help you get through your self-isolation period.
N.B. If you are ill because of Covid-19, listen to your body. Do not push yourself to carry out the suggested wellness practices that require energy and effort. Equally, even if you are not ill, remember that not every single moment throughout the day needs to be “productive” or working towards a goal. Be kind to yourself, do not put unnecessary pressure on your shoulders, and find a daily routine that works for you
Pick Up a Hobby
When you are self-isolating, especially if you are unable to work because of it, you will have a lot of free time on your hands. Just like many people did during the lockdowns, you could use this time to pick up a new hobby or one that you have forgotten about. Perhaps you have a guitar sitting in your basement that you always wanted to start playing, or you used to sew and have never got round to getting the sewing machine out again. Whatever it is, consider using this time to do something positive.
Exercise
One of the easiest wellness practices is physical activity. Even if it's only minimal, it is excellent for maintaining general wellbeing. Beyond its obvious physical benefits (helping to maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of high blood pressure, and so on), exercise is very important for mental health.
Exercise releases endorphins, which are powerful chemicals in your brain that make you feel good, thus helping to combat depression. Similarly, it is widely regarded as an effective anti-anxiety treatment, helping to take your mind off what is worrying you and relieve some tension.
We understand that exercise is harder when you cannot leave your home, especially if you do not have a garden or live in a small space. Yoga is a great form of exercise in such circumstances, as it does not require a large space or any equipment. As well as improving strength, balance, and flexibility, it is beneficial for mental and emotional wellness.
Meditation
Meditation is a wellness practice that only takes a few minutes out of your day (you should aim for at least 10 minutes). It helps to helps lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone in the body), which, in turn, can help reduce anxiety and instead promote feelings of happiness. Meditation is also known to lead to improved self-awareness and self-esteem, alongside better concentration and focus.
Stay Connected
Even though there is nothing more valuable than face-to-face interactions, remember that the modern digital world means that you can still stay connected with your loved ones even if you are in physical isolation. If you feel a wave of loneliness come over you, use phone calls, video calls, texting, and social media platforms to interact with your friends and family. You could even use this time to contact someone you have not spoken with in a long time.
Why Not Try CBD?
Self-isolation provides plenty of time to try new things, so why not have a look at our extensive range of premium CBD products? Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound that derives from cannabis plants that helps to support general wellbeing. It’s legal and doesn’t produce a “high”, so don’t worry!
The interaction between CBD and the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is what helps the compound provide a wealth of wellness-promoting benefits. The ECS is one of the largest neurotransmitter networks in the human body, consisting of endocannabinoids and their receptors. These help regulate many bodily functions including sleep, appetite, mood/stress levels, immune function, and memory.
Research has shown that CBD affects our bodies in a similar way to endocannabinoids, and thus acts in tandem with the ECS to support overall wellbeing. Alongside an active lifestyle, a healthy amount of sleep, a good diet, and so on, CBD can help enhance your daily wellness ritual.
Final Thought
If you adopt any of these wellness practices during your time in self-isolation and they work for you, make sure that you carry them into your post-isolation life! Improving and maintaining your mental and physical wellbeing is something that requires constant work.