How to Stay Sane in These Times
We are living in a different world than we were used to live a year ago. It changed due to the pandemic, and it affected all of us in some way. You know, in yoga, we often say don't let the external world affect your internal. It sounds excellent, but it is much easier when everything is perfect and in line. Now it is the test of how to make it happen. Change is inevitable. These changes are super quick these days, and because of all the news and social media, it can be very challenging for us mentally. I will give you a few tips on staying mentally all right to enjoy life even at this time.
1.Cut the negativity
Since March, the news is all about virus 24/7. It is essential to be informed about government restrictions but staying online all day long can make you nuts.
Negativity is contagious. Being bombarded only by bad news can create a feeling of anxiousness. There is an easy solution for that. Dedicate time in the day when you check the news and set a time frame for how long you do it. Preferably not at the night time.
The same applies to social media. Do you follow people who make you stressed? Mute or unfollow them. It is that easy. Follow people that inspire you and make you feel good.
2. Sleep like a Queen / King
Sleep is essential for our wellbeing. The harder the times, the better and high-quality sleep we need. It will help us to stay healthy and positive. I summarize a few things that can help you sleep better right away. Remember, an adult need about 7-9 hours a night.
Here we go:
sleep in a completely dark room, ventilated and preferably colder than warmer
go to bed at the same time and get up at the same time (circadian rhythm)
avoid blue light a few hours before going to bed (cellphone, tv, iPad, etc.)
don't drink caffeine several hours before bedtime (7 or more)
calm down. Don't do hard workouts or work before going to bed
move through the day
get sun exposure during the day
try supplements like magnesium, zinc, or CBD
3. Move
I know the summer vacation is probably far away, but it doesn't mean we shouldn't stay fit, right? Movement is necessary for us, and it is excellent medicine. You can do many activities at home, or you can go for a run or into the park. Create a routine and stick to it. I like to start a day with a 20-minute slow-paced activity like yoga, walking, or stationary bike. You can find excellent morning flow on our train.yogagang.com platform.
During the day, my favorite exercise is HIIT. It is a short but very intense workout. Check the app called 7. It has tons of great workouts. You don't need any equipment at all.
I also like to do calisthenic - pull-ups, rings, etc., and yoga. On Train.yogagang.com, you can find many classes focused on various aspects like flexibility, strength, or some specific skill like a handstand.
4. Grow
Use this situation to become stronger and better than ever. Don't wait till the end of the pandemic. It is a great time to start something new or to learn a new skill. The time is now. I began to read and listen to audiobooks even more than before. I will give you a few tips below. You can also do a course that you always wanted to take. I know this time can be challenging, but don't give up. Find a way how to stay in business even with these limitations. It will be over one day, and the one who started will have an advantage over the rest. In YOGAGANG, we are passionate about uplifting others. Become a part of the gang, and together we can make it.
Books I Recommend:
Life span: Why We Age—and Why We Don't Have To by David Sinclair [Amazon, Melvil CZ]
The future is faster than you think:How Converging Technologies Are Transforming Business, Industries, and Our Lives by Peter Diamandis [Amazon]
Deep: Freediving, Renegade Science, and What the Ocean Tells Us About Ourselves by James Nestor [Amazon]
5. Meditate
Meditation is an excellent tool for me to stay calmer and less reactive to the outside. I have been meditation for more than 3 years every day, and it feels so great. I highly recommend starting now. You want to meditate every day to have the most of it. Start slowly—even 1-minute counts. Don't worry about thinking if you do it right or wrong. The most important thing is to start. Here are the apps that will also help you right away.
Apps for meditation:
Headspace [Website]
Waking up [Website]
Insight timer [Website]
Calm [Website]
6. Be Grateful
Ok, maybe you are asking for what you should be grateful now. But there are many things. A gratitude journal is a proven way to lower stress levels. I have a set of questions for the morning and another one for the evening. In the morning, write 3 things that you are grateful for. 3 things which would make your day great and daily affirmation. In the evening, write 3 amazing things that happened to you.
This is super simple, and it feels so good. Do it right now. You have for sure something to be grateful for.
My Recommendation:
5 Minute Journal: Physical book [Check Here]
5 Minute Journal App [Download Here]
7. Help Others / Get Help
IF you can, try to uplift your friends, send a meal to the hospital, or do whatever you can. Share good and inspire others. We all need it. On the other hand, If you need help, don't be ashamed to ask for help from your friend or YOGAGANG community. We are in this together.
8. Socialize (online)
We can be grateful that we are living in the 21st century. We can socialize without meeting each other face to face. Use whatever tool you like. Call your friends, do a face time call, create a Facebook group. Stay in touch with others. It will help you to stay happy and positive.
Thank you, guys, for reading. I hope you find it useful. If you have any questions or you need help, you can hit YG Instagram or mine here.
Stay safe.
Martin