We are truly living in unique times. Will things open up again soon? How long will we have to practice social distancing? What does the future look like? Needless to say, a lot is up in the air right now and that can feel overwhelming at best and scary at worst.
That’s why in today’s post, we’d like to pose another question for you to consider — what are you doing to take care of yourself right now? Life looks very different now than it did six months ago, and with so many changes, it can almost feel like you’re caught in the current with little input about where the current is taking you. The good news? It is possible to find new ways to practice self-care even in the midst of a pandemic. Keep reading to learn more.
Life Is Different For Everyone
The truth is that all of us are facing unique challenges right now.
If you’re an essential worker, you’re out in public, day in and day out, working to bring home money. That means interacting with people who may feel differently than you do about the necessity of social distancing or mask guidelines.
If you once worked in an office, there’s a good chance that you’re now working remotely. For you, this probably meant finding room in your home to set up a computer and adjust to a completely different routine.
How to Care for Yourself
No matter what your specific situation looks like, it can be easy to get caught up in the flow of the moment, never taking the time you need to replenish your inner self. In fact, many people might not even realize that this is happening. In other words, we’ve spent so much time adjusting to a new normal that we’ve forgotten all about the things that give us life.
At Two Rivers Counseling in Portland, we’d like to challenge you to set aside some time in the next week to figure out what you need and then take steps toward making them happen. Do you need a day or two off of work to lay on the couch and do nothing but watch television and nap? That’s okay! Does the thought of a warm, relaxing bubble bath after your last shift of the week bring you joy? Set aside some time to do it. Is there a hobby you’ve been thinking of trying that you just haven’t picked up yet? Find a way to get started tonight.
Whatever the case may be for you, the reality is that there are different ways to care for yourself. As long as what you’re doing is giving you a boost in your mental health, you shouldn’t feel like you can’t make time for it. Sure, there’s a lot going on, and yes, you are more limited now in what you can do, but making self-care a priority is something that will benefit you indefinitely and it will pay off in the long run. After all, if you can find a way to take care of yourself well even during the most unique moment in your lifetime, it’s a practice that you can enjoy the benefits of for decades to come.
Do You Need to Speak With a Therapist?
Of course, there are certainly things that you don’t have to do alone. At Two Rivers Counseling, we want you to know that we’re here to help you through the most difficult times in your life. As a Portland therapist, Dr. Post-Holmberg is dedicated to providing patients with professional, personal, effective counseling. We’re even offering confidential online counseling, designed to make it as easy and stress-free as possible to schedule therapy into your day.
Know that it’s okay to be anxious about the present and uncertain about the future — and more so, know that it’s okay to need help. Speaking with a therapist may be just the thing you need to see the sun on the horizon ahead. You absolutely don’t have to feel alone.
Have a question? Ready to schedule an appointment at Two Rivers Counseling? We’d be glad to chat with you, so don’t hesitate to contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you!
