Staying Sane while Staying Home

I think we can all agree that, right now, the times are very..... unique.

We are in the middle of a world-wide pandemic that is (among many other things) both confusing and terrifying. Most, if not all of us, are under stay-at-home orders with the closures of all physical locations of "non-essential" businesses. 
I could write on and on in detail outlining all of our concerns and dilemmas and how we could stay safe and what we should and shouldn't do. But instead, I am choosing to write about things that can assist all of us in both our mental health during this time and (of course) our skin!

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• Set your alarm.  Even if you are not able to work from home right now, I've found that keeping a weekly schedule with an alarm at a reasonable time helps to keep me in a routine that my body actually craves. Plus, it will help keep us motivated with more energy and less likely to fall into depression.
• Wash your face! As an esthetician, I will always insist you never skip this step. But, not only does it help keep your skin fresh and more clear during times of stress, it will help you wake and feel refreshed and ready for the day! Consider pampering yourself with an enzyme and hydrating mask once every week or two to maintain a glowing complexion and detoxing.  
• ​Do something everyday you'll look forward to.  I suggest this for first thing in the morning, if you can. Not only does it motivate you to get up and get you looking forward to the day, but it also starts your morning off positively. For me, it is a cup of coffee while reading a chapter in my book.
• Get outside!  I have a dog, so for me it's easy for him to convince me it's walk time! But even if you don't, sit on your balcony/deck/porch to eat lunch. Play catch with your kiddos. Or take your laptop under some shade to work. Maybe even put your yoga mat in the backyard for an evening stretch.
• Exercise.  No need to go crazy if this one isn't your cup of tea. It could be as simple as walking outside or stretching while watching a show. Right now there are many apps that lead you through Yoga and at home workouts too if you want to give it a try! My husband and I are members of the YMCA and just downloaded their app.
• Finish a home project you've been putting off.  This is something I've noticed most of my neighborhood partaking in. So many home projects (or even little crafts) we mean to start get pushed to the back burner due to lack of time and energy. Do that vision board. Create that painting. Pressure wash the driveway. Hang those pictures on the walls of your apartment.
• Give your brain a break.  Zoning out on a good show or movie every once in awhile is a nice vacation from my thoughts these days. Some talked about ones that we've watched and enjoyed so far are:  Tiger King (an insane show on Netflix that makes your life seem boring), The Invisible Man (a strange thriller that keeps you guessing available to purchase on Amazon Prime), Dark Waters (to get you worrying about something other than COVID-19, available to rent on Apple TV). Also, any comedy is a give-in right now.... we could all use some extra laughter! 

Remember - This is temporary. We will get through this. And you are strong.

Xo
Jacquelyn