The COVID-19 pandemic has affected people’s lives globally in ways no one could have ever seen coming. The pandemic has impacted all aspects of our lives, from the economy to people’s daily routines. This led to a sudden surge in stress and anxiety levels here in the United States and all around the globe.
The World Health Organization defines stress as the body’s response to a real or perceived threat or situation. It can manifest in different forms such as anger, anxiety, depression, and even physical symptoms like migraines, digestive problems, and fatigue. Managing stress during a pandemic was essential to maintain one’s physical and mental health and it still is today as we try to slowly transition back to ‘normal’ life.
Here are some effective ways you can manage stress post-COVID-19 pandemic:
- Meditation
Meditation is a practice that has been around for thousands of years. Originally used to by various cultures to have a deeper understanding of one’s spirit and body, it has seen a rise in usage by everyday people. I’ve heard from friends and other people I know that tried meditation swear by it saying that it is the main way they relieve themselves of tension or stress that they had that day. Some people like to start off their day with it as a way to set the tone for the remainder of the day while others prefer the night so they can clear their minds before they go to sleep. And, of course, some people prefer to do both.
- Exercise
Although exercise is mostly looked at as a way to improve your physical health, it can be beneficial for your mental health as well. Exercise is an effective stress reliever. Regular physical activity helps to reduce cortisol levels, which is a stress hormone and triggers endorphins, which can improve your mood. Exercise can also shift your focus away from the stress you are dealing with, which allows us to have time to recharge mentally and emotionally. Try incorporating some light exercise into your daily routine. Something as simple as taking a walk could help improve your mental health.
- Being well rested
Sleep is a crucial aspect of our overall health and well-being. Whether you are a student or a working professional, a good night’s sleep can be beneficial to everyone. Unfortunately, in today’s fast-paced world, many people often sacrifice sleep to meet the demands of their daily life. When we’re sleep-deprived, our bodies release more stress hormones, making us feel more anxious and irritable. This, in turn, can lead to more stress and a negative cycle that’s difficult to break. By prioritizing sleep, we allow our bodies time to recover, repair, and regenerate, which helps to reduce anxiousness and improve our overall health.
Managing stress is critical for overall physical and mental well-being, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. With the information above, hopefully, you can reduce stress levels and improve overall mental health. And remember, it’s okay to ask for help when you’re feeling overwhelmed or unable to manage on your own.
