Lockdown Got You In A Fix? Here Are Some Ways To Reset Your Mind And Body

The year 2020, will probably go down in history as a rather an eventful year. With the outbreak of the global killer—COVID-19—and the subsequent lockdowns imposed across the world, a larger number of the global work force have been spending most of their time at home. Sure, having a lot of time at hand is great, but it can sometimes cause a lag too. If you feel bogged down and drained of energy on most days, chances are you need to reset your settings, just how you would your phone. Read on to know about how you can reset your mind and body if the lockdown has left your system in a fix.

If you tend to have negative thoughts, it will inevitably lead to you focusing on the negativity around you. Positivity breeds positivity, which is why having a positive attitude or just being mindful about your surroundings can really help you uplift your mood. Here are a few things you can do:

1. Make A Habit Of Journaling

Maintain a journal and pen down all your thoughts—positive or negative. Treat the journal like a confidant and let go of things that may be bothering you. Soon, you will notice the pattern your thoughts tend to take, and you can gradually steer clear of the negativity. If you don’t find the time to jot down all your thoughts, make it a habit to list three things you are grateful for. This will help change your perceptions and view things in a positive light.

2. Find A New Hobby

This would be a good time to start taking those guitar or dance lessons, which you have been meaning to do for a while. A lot of professionals and teachers are now holding their classes online, which you can access with a good internet connection on your laptop or phones, wherever you are! A new hobby will not only make sure that you are busy, but will also give you a chance to unleash your creative side.

3. Switch Off

There is a good chance you will be spending more time in front of your electronic devices, not only working, but also browsing. The constant information overload does more harm than good. Take out half an hour every day to disconnect from all your electronic devices. You could use this time to read a book, clean a corner, or just rest for a bit. In fact, there are various apps which restrict the use of phones after you have crossed a certain limit of screen time. This can help you effectively switch off.

4. Space Out Your Tasks

This may take a few days to fully implement as it requires paying close attention to your day. You have to observe when you are at your productive best, and divide your tasks accordingly. For example, if you have the motivation to work in the morning, schedule tasks that will require your undivided attention at that time. If your productivity comes in spurts then alternate between the important and the other tasks accordingly. If you work better when you have a deadline, set one to finish important tasks in a timely fashion.

5. Practice Meditation and Mindfulness

Begin your day with a five-minute deep breathing session. This is to help you put your thoughts together as you plan for the day. Similarly, before calling it a night, you could increase the time for your meditation session. If at any point during the day you start to feel stressed out, find a quiet corner do some deep breathing exercises. This will help you remain calm and practice mindfulness.

6. Fix Your Sleep Cycle

The quality and the quantity of your sleep matters, which is why it is important to have a sleep cycle. Try to sleep and wake up at the same time every day, as it will help you reset your body clock. Make sure you get eight hours sleep. An hour before bed time, switch off all electronic devices near you as the blue light from them harms your eyes and causes sleep disturbances. Ensure to keep your phone away from your person when you sleep. Your alarm will force you to get out of bed to just snooze it. If you have trouble falling asleep, relax your body and mind with some deep breathing.

7. Have a Physical Routine

Write down all the tasks that need to be done, and allocate them so that you are physically active during the day. Whether it is cleaning out the kitchen cabinets or scrubbing the floor, these tasks will keep you from sitting at one place for too long, as well as help you stay neat and organised. This also includes a daily workout. A 30 minute walk, or following your favourite workout video online three to four times a week will help shed those calories and give your body some much-needed exercise.

8. Balance Your Diet

We are all up for enjoying delicious snacks every once in a while, but if it starts interfering with your health, that’s when you need to take stock. It might be a little difficult to completely switch your diet so start small and take things as they come. Try to balance out your healthy and junk food; for every packet of chips you consume, try to add more fibre and protein in your diet, gradually eliminating the junk food. Alternatively, trying cooking that pizza or burger at home so you can exert control over the ingredients that go into the dish.