Emotions and stress are at an all time high for many of us. For those that already have issues with anxiety may be experiencing some very intense feelings. We want to try and help all of you! Our team put together what we’re doing during this time to reduce stress and create calm.  Please share your ideas with us too! We’re in this together. 

• Stay informed but set limits. With the continuously evolving situation, we have to stay updated on the latest developments. Yet leaving the 24/7 news feed live on our TV’s and social media feeds can leave your mind in a fight or flight state, increasing anxiety. Commit to checking credible sources like the CDC website 2-3 times a day, or watching the morning or evening news of your choice, but also taking time to unplug and just be.
• Turn off your devices and spend quality time with your loved ones. Make dinner together as a family, go on a walk or Facetime with a friend to connect. 
• Go for a walk. Fresh air and light exercise can help clear your mind while reducing stress and anxieties.
• Stay active! A 30-minute workout is just as good for your mental health as it is for your physical health. Physical activity helps increase blood flow and stimulate your mind, resulting in an overall improvement to you health and wellbeing.
• Laughter calms down your stress response and can decrease your heart rate. Start a tickle fight with your kids while you’re all home together or watch your favorite comedians on YouTube and Netflix. Need a place to start? Look up #weightedblanketchallenge on social for a good laugh.
• Control what you can control. Amongst stress, confusion and the unknown of what tomorrow will look like, try to embrace what you can control. Whether that’s tidying up a closet to bring calm, tackling a home improvement project you’ve been trying to complete, or making dinner for your family, do what you can to create peace around you.
• Take it One Day at a Time. It’s a mantra for a reason. There are so many speculations on what the long-term effects of this COVID-19 pandemic will have on the economy and society at large, as well as personal anxiety about our own health and that of our family members. Try to remind yourself that worrying about something will not change its outcome, and focus instead on the day in front of you. What needs to happen today? What can you do today to take care of yourself and your family? When tomorrow arrives, ask yourself the same question. Taking care of today is how we will take care of tomorrows.

Team Active content is not medical advice; it's inspiration to live actively!