How to Manage Stress during the Coronavirus Pandemic

It has been months since our normal routine took a sudden change all because of an unseen enemy. The Coronavirus has affected everyone and has caused a lot to experience anxiety, confusion and negativity.

For someone who was doing the same routine before the pandemic, it’s a lot to take in and accept the fact that we are now moving in slow phases and living the new normal as positively as we can.

As we bring what once were office problems to our own homes, we are all learning to balance a new kind of stress of not just being stuck in our homes, but also of having to deal with all of the problems life brings all in one place, while also respecting others’ space and the way they cope with the situation. 

Here in this blog, we’ll share some tips on how you can manage stress throughout the ongoing pandemic. 

Dress like you’re actually going to work

Working in pajamas may make you feel more comfortable and may save you time in preparing before starting work on your home desk. Although working from home has its conveniences, every now and then and especially when you’re feeling tired and restless, try dressing up like you’re going to work. Dressing up appropriately even though you’ll just be working remotely gives your mind and body the signal it needs to shift to “work mode”. At the same time, getting in your work clothes gives you the opportunity to wear some clothes that haven’t been taken out of your closet in months. 

Reduce your distractions

Similar to an office setup, have your phone set aside when working from home. As much as possible, keep your phone notifications on silent to avoid distractions. Try deleting some apps that are no longer of use to you. This also helps in saving some storage space on your phone. 

And just like in any workplace, turn off the television to help you focus on the task at hand. Listening to music can be beneficial to some as it helps them relax, but the most important is to listen to your body and what makes your mind attuned to what needs to be accomplished. If the music is distracting you or the view of your bed is making you feel sleepy, try moving to a different part of the house to find the best place for you to work at that very moment. 

Provide scheduled breaks

Of course, you don’t have to face your screen for eight hours straight. For health reasons, your eyes should take a break once in a while. Setting an alarm for breaks would be best not only for your eyes but also for your body. Do some body stretches and get some fresh air during your breaks.

You can plan mini breaks to breaks which can take over an hour. Because you’re at home, walking away from work may actually increase productivity, for as long as you don’t linger too much and can get back on track again.

Attend training sessions

Attending training sessions even in video set up can also enhance your skills and master your field in the long run. By working smarter, you get to refresh your memory and skills to be able to become an expert on what you want to be.

Just like our training sessions at Haraya Coaching, we provide full support and full knowledge to teach you to become well aware and be an advocate of self-awareness. Cariz Peregrino says “Haraya sessions were a breath of fresh air. While the sessions comprise just a small percentage of our whole onboarding process, these were matters that gave value to the often-overlooked aspects of one’s self. These were essential in promoting the welfare of our volunteers.”

Prioritize sleep

No doubt, sleep is very important. You may be working from home in self-isolation and might end up sleeping late to binge-watch or work on your personal hobbies – but remember that proper sleep is a must. Good sleep consists of a minimum of eight hours per night. Part of time management if dedicating some time for sleep as it readies your mind and body to perform better the next day. 

Don’t forget to reward yourself

Having survived this long through this pandemic is actually a reward in itself. You’ve gotten this far and have surpassed all the stress and anxiety while keeping your distance and resisting temptations to enjoy the outside environment. In terms of working from home, give yourself some mini rewards for finishing your tasks on time and for being able to adjust and work smarter in your new work environment. 

One way you can also reward yourself is through sweets or by watching one episode of your favorite show in the middle of the day. If you feel you’ve already adapted to your new work routine everyday, reward yourself once in a while. This is no easy feat. 

In this time of the pandemic with the endless what if’s, it’s difficult to turn to someone to share your frustrations and to get words of advice. Sometimes, we just need to draw strength from someone who will listen and accept our flaws for what they are. At Haraya Coaching, we’re here to listen and help you bounce back to feeling your true self. Do you need help bouncing back? Or maybe you just need someone to share your thoughts with? Write to us at team@harayacoaching.com or drop us a message at http://harayacoaching.com/connect-with-us/ to learn more about how we can help you be your imaginable.