Being in quarantine is tough, and this is being experienced in very different ways depending where you reside. In San Antonio, it has a more intense quarantine culture than in New Braunfels or San Marcos. But now answering the question on how to be and do during quarantine. What are the things that you have been wanting to improve on? The goals that you have been putting off because of lack of time or energy to do so. This is a perfect time to reinvent yourself, this is a time for growth and change for all of us. Imagine, we are in a unique situation, all of us, where we are all are needing to stay at home for our safety and health.
What to do or be in quarantine. One way to be is silent, really listen to yourself and to what your body or mind has been trying to tell you for quite some time now but for whatever reason, you have been either avoiding it or too busy to listen or attend to. Be gentle with yourself, as mentioned before, we are all going through this changing time together so be patient and gentle with yourself and others around you. Another way of being during quarantine is active, continue following your schedule, have a schedule where you are able to incorporate those self-care or favorite past time activities you have been yearning to do for some time now but unable to for many other reasons. Think about what you would like to do with those extra 1-2 hours that you are saving yourself from commuting from and to work.
Think about Gains during quarantine – instead of thinking “I want to lose 10 pounds” think “I was to gain insight on how to eat healthier.” Gaining is a more positive way to look at outcomes as well as a better catalyst for change. Start with small gains and celebrate them in a big way. Now I ask you, what are you wanting to gain during quarantine. Maybe the answer is simpler than you think.
Composed by Ann A. Stalcup, MS, Predoctoral Intern and U.S. Army Veteran.
