Staying home, reading, watching TV and doing whatever you want sounded great when we were kids. No school, relax, wait and noodle soup. What a life… for about three days. After the third day, one became bored and irritable. Everyone was out playing after school and we were stuck in the house. It was a relief to go back to school, regardless of homework and tests.

It’s a little different today and maybe not so much. At first

I felt a bit comfortable having a few days off from the hustle and bustle of life. Kind of fun to have family around and good home cooked meals. It was a good time to catch up on the little things you’ve been putting off. So, closets were cleaned out, emails answered, and fun foods stocked up. Fun and somewhat safe.

The truth is that type of safe is not secure enough and it is very important to get over the irritation of being locked up and realize how essential it is for everyone. Someone gave the example of Anne Frank and her 761 days in hiding. Eight people in a 450ft. space. They had no other choice and their lives depended on not being discovered.

Here are some ideas on how to keep a cool head during quarantine:

Gratefully

Be thankful that you are protected by doing the simple task of avoiding crowds of people. Be glad that you now have the opportunity to become more self-aware, to read books, watch movies, and develop a stronger relationship with your family members. This could be something you remember with fond memories.

anxiety reactions

Remember that anxiety and panic attacks are triggered by thoughts. Be aware of how you are thinking and be aware of your perspective in every situation. You have the option to see each situation, your environment and life in general. You have total control over how you see everything around you, which can make or break your reactions. Be aware of how many “what if” sentences you say to yourself because these two little words can trigger the release of adrenaline. If you feel anxious, let it pass through you without trying to stop it. It is their fear and running away from the symptoms that feeds them. Stay busy and get moving. Exercising, dancing, and even cleaning out the closets are enough to reabsorb the adrenaline-released anxiety caused by your worried “what if” thinking.

increase serotonin

You can naturally increase serotonin (the feel-good chemical in the brain) by making a few simple changes to your routine. Eat lean protein with every meal and snack. Real food protein (poultry, meat, fish, or dairy), not protein bars. A complex carbohydrate (no protein at this time) before bed, such as toast, bagels, whole grains, whole grain crackers. This will release serotonin in the brain, resulting in a good night’s rest and a happier feeling in the morning. Walking outdoors, since natural light increases Serotonin through the optic nerve. Even if it’s not sunny, it’s brighter than indoors and will increase serotonin in the brain.

Creativity

This is the time to use your creativity and think of interesting things to fill your time. Find that book you always wanted to read or the movie you always wanted to see. Plan a daily exercise routine because being outside is nourishing for both mind and body. You may want to redecorate or paint your bedroom or another room in your house. Organizing closets, kitchens, and desks can also be very satisfying.

social networks

Stay in touch with friends and family online and through phone calls. You don’t have to be physically with someone to enjoy their company. There are also online card games that you can play with two or more friends, as well as other group games that are fun. Share your feelings with friends and you’ll notice the similarities everyone shares during this time.

Get in touch with the elderly

It is important to keep in touch with older members of the family. Being outside is fine and waving to grandparents through the windows or leaving food packages for them will be greatly appreciated. Remember, these are the people who love you and miss you. They were never in quarantine either and it is also difficult for them. Showing them that you are thinking of them is a priceless gift that will always be remembered. Helping others gets us out of our worried heads.

outdoor activity

Being outdoors is an amazing way to break the cycle of boredom. Gardening is also a proven way to lift your spirits. There are microbes found in the soil that have similar effects on the brain as Prozac minus the side effects and chemical dependency. Playing tennis is fun and you will still keep the distance between you and your partner. A walk in itself is a mood lifter and the whole exercise feels good. You’ll sleep better, enjoy a healthy appetite, and increase feel-good chemicals in your brain.

Cooking

Now might be a good time to try some new recipes and experience the joy of cooking. Baking is an opportunity to make delicious and often healthier desserts that the whole family can enjoy. Everyone loves the cook, so this is a great way to show your family how much you care, and get all their gratitude in return.

Online classes and activities

This could be a great time to take advantage of online classes. There are many free courses offered and a wonderful opportunity to learn something new and fun. Art instruction, painting, printing, and drawing are available online. Exercise and yoga classes are also offered. Cooking classes, dance classes, and home workouts can also be fun. For children there are celebrities reading books to children who are home from school. There are also creative arts and crafts projects to keep your children busy during this time. They also start spiritual classes together with their favorite authors who offer interesting instructions from YouTube.

Above all, know that we are all in this together. We all share the same feelings and concerns. Talk to someone you trust. It is very helpful to express your fears and listen to the comfort of another person who is also going through the same thing.