A new way of working…..
The last few months of lockdown and local restrictions have been tough for most of us. I have to admit, it’s been quite a stressful time as work for me hasn’t slowed down but accelerated, and I don’t make it easy for myself juggling more than one role.
Self-care week gave me the excuse – if one is needed – to realise that since COVID-19 hit us – my working week was fast becoming a 7 day week. The division between work and home was a challenge for me, with Whatsapp groups and emails – it can be a long day!
Research from the University of Illnois, has shown that emails after hours introduce stress spikes that can lead to negativity and insomnia, so they recommend setting clear boundaries and turning off alerts.
Self-care week (16th- 22nd November) allowed me to press the pause button, step back, and reflect on whether I want to continue with this way of working or not?
There are lots of ways we can manage our stress and look after ourselves both mentally and physically.
Creating a Self-Care Plan
I jotted a few things down from the advice available on social media during self-care week – Newcastle University library @nclroblib had some good top tips!
Looking forward to the New Year after we’ve recharged our batteries – we can reset and consider self-care not just for a week in November but incorporate it into our ‘new normal’ schedules!
My top tips are:
- Healthy eating
- Exercise
- Drink water
- Meditation or a yoga class
- Lovely, relaxing bath!
- To-do-lists
- Having a proper lunch break
- Note 3 achievements of the day and give yourself a pat on the back
- Taking in a breathe of fresh air and appreciating nature
- Relax with a warm ‘eyebag’ and revitalise those tired eyes!
- Beauty routines
- Try and switch off from work during the evenings and enjoy family time
- And get a good night’s sleep!
These simple strategies should work wonders and help to relax and unwind the mind so you keep fit and healthy in mind and body! Good luck!
My optical dispensing digest 