Sometimes we find ourselves struggling to stay positive, we get into an inner battle with ourselves when we’re feeling particularly blue. This is even more apparent during COVID-19. Being stuck at home can take a toll on your mental health. I want to try and help those that are struggling to stay positive during these troubling times.

Here are some tactics I use to stay positive:

Waking up early

A lot of us do not like to wake up early, but I have noticed that waking up early has given me more energy throughout the day. I wake up with a fresh mentality ready to tackle the day. You can always accomplish more when you wake up early and you won’t feel as tired when the day drags on.

Drink plenty of water, combined with a healthy diet

Drinking water keeps your body happy! I recently purchased a 64 ounce water bottle that I refill two-three times a day (4AMinLA Motivational Water Bottle 64/100oz Half Gallon Jug with Straw and Time Marker Large Capacity Leakproof BPA Free Fitness Sports Water Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VV1CFBG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_wQidFbCPFB95X). Keeping my body hydrated has kept me motivated throughout the day. When your body feels great, your mentality will follow. Pair this with a healthy diet and you’ll add some happy boosts to your day. When your ordering your groceries from InstaCart, be sure to add in fruit, nuts, vegetables, Greek yogurt, flax seeds, dark chocolate, cucumber, hummus, and more. Snacking is inevitable during quarantine, so try to sack smart!

Go on a morning or afternoon walk (take your mask!)

Walks are great to get the fresh air we all need, especially after being cooped up at home for long periods of time. A nice walk can give you a clear headspace, it’s also great exercise. I usually walk for about an hour late in the afternoon. By that time the sun is going down and the air has a slight breeze. Most of the time, it’s the highlight of my day.

Take up an arts and crafts project

As silly as this may sound, it could be great for your entertainment. A positive of quarantine is that you have plenty of time to exercise your artistic abilities. Something I have taken up is creating a family tree. This project started out as a small idea, but has now taken a form of multiple scrapbooks that need to be made. Sitting down for hours on end completing a project like this can be incredibly therapeutic. Try scrapbooking, small wood-building projects, painting, doodling, revamping old furniture, or anything else that will get those creative juices flowing. You will have so much fun creating a custom masterpiece and I guarantee you will wake up looking forward to it every morning.

Watch a new movie or favorite from a streaming service

This seems basic, but who doesn’t love re-watching an old favorite? I recommend finding a movie you adored from your childhood. Movies like those will always bring back nostalgia and will give you a brief break from realty. If you ever find yourself wondering what to do, turn on the TV and put on the “Fox and the Hound.” That movie always tugs at the heartstrings and makes us young adults feel like we’re kids again.

Read a book!

Another way to get a break from reality is reading a great novel. Books truly take you away from the world you know into a make believe world that has you incredibly invested. Pick a genre, search for a book, then begin to read it. I recommend reading outside, this not only gives you a change of scenery, but it relaxes your body. Depending on how you invested you are, you may finish the novel in one day! Continue reading different types of novels and be sure check out some recommendation online if you aren’t sure what to choose.

https://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/art-books-music/g30719704/best-new-books-2020/

Take up a new hobby

Another great positive of quarantine is that you can take up a new hobby! I took up gardening during the quarantine. I wasn’t sure if I would like it or even be good at it, but I have actually had a great time caring for my plants. I have enjoyed it so much that I plan to make this a long-team hobby and create a larger garden in my backyard. Step out of your comfort zone, you may be surprised at how well this new hobby will treat you.

Do fun cardio, dance workouts!

No gym? Bored at home? Try out these cardio dance workouts! This such a fun way to workout and burn off some of those quarantine calories. Staying active will keep your body and mind happy, especially when you’re jamming out to some of your favorite songs. You will be working out with a smile on your face and will feel so great afterwards. Here is the link to Kyra Pro, the girl I follow for the cardio workouts: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAUNlQUjaBD8ATXVgo1KYUimlOEpNQFTm

Have a Zoom get together with your freinds

Spending a lot of time at home alone or with the same people can sometime get overwhelming. It is extremely important to continue to communicate with your friends daily. The bittersweet fact is that we are all going through this together. People may be feeling exactly like you are feeling. Talk to your friends, family, and loved ones. Schedule a game night over Zoom, a movie night, or wine night. You can still experience the joy of hanging out with your friends virtually.

I love you all. Continue to stay positive during these tough times. Put yourself and your mental health first, always.