The world is in a strange time now because of the global pandemic COVID-19. As the virus continues to spread, it’s become clear that the best way to stop this is to stay home as much as possible. Because this means a change (whether big or small) as to how we live our lives, it’s normal to feel panic and stress amidst all the action. However, it’s very important to go easy on yourself and to take time for self-care.

Follow these tips from Ecology and regain a sense of calm and control.

1. Meditation

Meditation is a great way to immediately reduce anxiety and stress and to calm the brain and body. One easy form of meditation is to simply close your eyes and focus on breathing. Here’s how to do it:

• Find a place to sit or lie down

• Close your eyes and begin to focus on breathing

• Allow thoughts to enter the mind, but gently guide them away to focus your attention back to your breathing

• Visualise air entering and exiting your body

• Do this for as long as you’d like, but even just 3 minutes is enough to reset the mind and encourage clarity.

If you’d like to further your mediation, check out some great resources like Headspace to guide you on your meditation journey.



2. Yoga    

Like meditation, yoga is also great for the brain. It’s a form of exercise that stretches and strengthens both the body and the mind. Because there are so many different types and levels of yoga, it’s possible for anyone to join, anywhere! Start here, at home, with this great channel.



3. Arts and crafts    

Dig deep and channel your inner artist to boost your mood. Start drawing, painting, sewing, glueing and beading to get your creative juices flowing. If you’re in need of inspiration, the Ecology designers have created a mindfulness colouring activity (Click here to download). Share it with friends and host an online craft party! Remember that calm and happiness spreads just as easily as fear and panic, so doing group activities like this is a great way to help your friends and family from a distance.


4. Read a book, or two, or three!    


Image by @alabaster.haus featuring the Nomad mug in Blush

Your reading list has probably been put on the back burner for a while. Here’s your chance to start reading again! Whether it’s a thrilling crime fiction novel or a DIY renovating guide, there’s a book on your shelf waiting to be picked up again.


5. Check-in on Friends and Family.  

A kind message can really brighten up someone’s day. Send a quick text or message on socials to check in on your friends and family. If you’re up to it, write a letter and surprise a loved one with snail mail. You can also check in on your neighbours and the elderly in your street. They might need someone to talk to (at a distance) or could be struggling with something that you might be able to help with! Altruism is contagious and is a surefire way to boost your mood!


6. Home Spa Day.    


Image by @nardias_loves featuring the Dawn mug in Blossom

Treat yourself to a home spa day; the ultimate form of self-care! Start by brewing yourself a warm, soothing herbal tea in your favourite mug. Make a homemade body scrub with ½ cup brown sugar, ½ cup coffee grounds and ½ cup coconut oil. For your face, you can mix ¼ cup warm water with 1 tbsp coconut oil and 3tsp of oatmeal to form a soothing and restorative face mask.


@rebekahannewilliams Spa Day featuring the Ottawa Calico Mug



7. Declutter your home. 

Image by @_ashlee_white_ featuring the Nomad mug in Amber

Declutter your home and refresh your style with some new Ecology pieces. Remember that we ship to you, with free shipping over $100, so there’s no need for you to leave the home.

Resources

Remember to check Health.gov for updates and reputable news regarding COVID-19. If you’re concerned about your health you can call the National Corona Virus hotline. Always call 000 if you require emergency assistance.