Alicia LimTruthfully, I have a whole list of topics to blog about and even some notes on a few of them… but I’m at a loss for the motivation to actually write out those thoughts. This year has required changes to most aspects of life: transportation, work habits, socializing, religious and leisure activities and more. How do you find meaningful rest? I confess much of the time when I’m seeking rest, I succumb to habits that are more mind-numbing than anything, such as impulsively scrolling through social media.
I wrote this list back in April this year; hopefully it will help anyone like me who needs a reminder that numbing one’s mind doesn’t do much good and that there are easy ways to rest and restore even when it’s chilly out and the pandemic keeps you from interacting IRL. I called it, “mood-boosting ideas during a pandemic,” but of course I am confident they can boost your mood even in absence of a global health crisis. Here they are:
Music
A friend said to me this summer, “I miss singing!” She meant singing with others (I assume), because for the moment, choral singing is discouraged around here even if people are spread apart. However, you don’t need to be in a group to enjoy the benefits of music! Sing a song, play an instrument, or simply listen to your favourite tunes. My son and I have been learning Spanish children’s songs for added fun.
Make a list of blessings
The more thankful you are, the happier. Prior to shutdowns I wasn’t in the habit of journaling, but this spring I decided I wanted to get back into it for the sake of my mental health. I do occasionally use my journal to vent, but I try to also prioritize thanksgiving and joyful memories. Since routinely writing down the little blessings in my life I might otherwise take for granted, I have found that I’m less anxious and more at peace.
Mail/message
Feeling lonesome? Reach out with a greeting card, or simply say “hello” with a text. Personally, receiving a letter or a message from a friend has many times been the highlight of my day, and I know I’m not the only one who’s experienced this! Why not spread the love and let a friend know you’re thinking of them?
“Meet” others
Normally, I would not add the quotation marks around “meet,” but lately there are a host of obstacles keeping us from meeting friends in person. Thankfully, I can connect with friends and family via the Internet. Spending time together virtually doesn’t have to consist entirely of talking to the screen or playing games, either! This summer friends and I had a Netflix-party-workout night: we watched some popular sitcoms and had a list of exercises to do when certain lines or gags came up in each one. Previously, I had done this kind of thing with friends together, but this was my first attempt organizing and participating online! It was simple enough, and neat seeing each person working out in their own home at the same time. We laughed – and lunged, planked and squatted – loads!
Mealtime, healthy
As I type this I’m eating a salad, and thus giving myself a figurative pat on the back. Though I’m at home all the time and therefore should find it easy to eat healthfully, honestly some days I forget to eat lunch due to being distracted by work or games. But the days I do make healthy food choices, little else needs to happen and I feel more alert, less prone to self-pity and as though I am a responsible person. Mood = boosted!
Meander outdoors & marvel at creation
It’s autumn, and the fall leaves are beautiful. I’m blessed to live in an area where the forest is right outside my backyard; however, even if you need to take a drive or a bus trip to see more natural landscapes, you’re likely to feel more relaxed and refreshed after taking in the fresh air and scenery! You might even see some friendly woodland creatures.
Move!
Physical activity “relieves stress, improves memory, helps you sleep better, and boosts your overall mood,” according to psychologists at HelpGuide. It can also help treat mental illness. This year I resolved to exercise more. It’s an easy goal to meet, because last year I hardly exercised at all. I downloaded a free fitness app, and found a library of different workout videos to try! I only actually use the videos on occasion, and I typically stick to the stretching “workouts” when I do. So, this app has mostly served as a place to log my exercise and a source of motivation (it awards badges for completing workouts and challenges), which has helped me both with a more active lifestyle and to reduce stress!
Manage mandatory, menial ménage
If you’re wondering, by “ménage” I mean housework. (Admittedly, I was reaching a little for the alliteration there.) Mundane tasks can offer a mental break by freeing your mind for a moment. As a bonus, you’ll have one fewer chore to do when you’re done, and knowing you’ve done something necessary can help set your mind at ease.
Meditate on Christ
In other words, “whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Philippians 4:8). What do you spend time thinking about? What brings you peace? Take the time to let go of any burdens you may have, and reflect upon goodness and truth, “and the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:9).
Moderate media consumption
Finally, take time away from the newsfeed! Try placing your device(s) somewhere and doing something else for a while. Read a book, colour or do one of the other suggestions on this list! You’ll think more clearly and feel liberated.
When you’ve done any or all of those things, tell me how your mood is! What would you add to the list?