During this pandemic, we all have a responsibility to keep one another safe during these unprecedented times. However, it is understood that being confined to your home can prove challenging. Here are a few ideas to help you maintain emotional balance.  

• Establish a daily routine. It provides the structure for your day. Be intentional about how you spend your time. Try to find ways to be productive. Create a short to-do-list of things you would like to accomplish.
• Strengthen your spiritual life. Faith-based practices can help decrease depression and anxiety. Spend time in prayer and meditation. Attend an on line Bible study or weekly service. Read books, or listen to podcasts that will help you grow in this area.
• Start a gratitude journal. Where the mind goes, the man follows. In times like this, It is easy to focus on the negative, which can add to feelings of sadness or stress. Even during the storm, there are still things to be thankful for. Shift your focus by counting your blessings.
• Watch at least one motivational video daily. It will keep you inspired and encouraged.
• Exercise. It’s good for both physical and mental health. It can help relieve stress, anxiety, and increase feel-good endorphins. You will look good and feel good. That’s an added bonus!
• Pick up a new skill, or revisit an old hobby. Do something you said you would do if you had more time. Go back to an early love of your life, like art or music. YouTube is a great resource for learning new things. Now is an excellent time to participate in activities that will bring you joy. 
• Don’t isolate yourself. While we are practicing social distancing, thanks to technology, you can still reach out to your loved ones and friends. Use FaceTime or other apps to interact. Stay in touch via text. Make sure to check on those who live alone. Social distancing is hard for everyone. A simple text letting others know you are thinking of them can brighten someone’s entire day, and lift your spirits as well.  
• Enjoy time with your family. If you have children in your home, try to make the most out of your time together. Plan a family night where you can play games or watch movies. Spend time cooking together. Working out can be fun, especially if your children play sports. This can become your time to experience their world. 
• Watch the news and other reports in moderation if it creates worry, stress, or anxiety. We all need to be informed, but do not watch the news for hours on end if it heightens anxiety or stress levels.
• Be patient with yourself. Every day you may not feel like conquering the world, and that’s OK, but make sure you are giving your best effort to make each day meaningful. Life is still a gift, even in the midst of hard times. Be healthy, body, mind, and soul.