Hi everyone,
I think it has been hard to deal with what’s going on in the world today but from the medical student perspective I can only live my life and strive to be more productive so that I can be the change in the world for others. I haven’t been the most diligent quarantineer because I do go outside for walks and hikes more often than I should but I try to maintain that physical distance. However, my tips and tricks are great for anyone just stuck at home too! I started this during week 2 of quarantine and it has made life easier and even enjoyable. I love the community on Instagram and all the encouragement I’ve had from people I love to follow. The positivity is just so great! So here is my way that I cope and even thrive with the coronavirus quarantine.
- Track your habits and make them daily goals- I used to maintain a habit tracker before medical school and it was the best for my mental sanity. It allowed me to feel productive for that day and I love the physical presence of a notebook with check boxes. If you aren’t an artist, you can always opt for any of the habit tracking apps.
- Work out!! Even if you’re just doing like 10 push ups and 10 crunches. Do something to get your heart rate up a bit and it will make you feel immensely more accomplished and maybe even stick it on your habit tracker
- Try to improve a skill- maybe you are trying to learn a new language, maybe you have always thought about picking up an instrument, or crafting, sewing, art, whatever it is. Stimulate your brain and grow from it, especially if it is something you are passionate about. I have personally picked up my flute from high school far more times this past week than in the past 8 years. I’m also using Duolingo to hone my Japanese skills. I learned how to sew last week and made masks to donate which brings me to my next coping skill.
- Volunteer your time- for me this has always been something that inspires me to do more in the world and whether it’s childcare for a health worker and first responder or volunteering at the food bank. It is a great way to make yourself feel productive and help others who are taking care of all of us.
- Meditate- I know this might not be for everyone but I think it is very important for this time to meditate a little and improve focus. This will help with sending and receiving positive vibes and just more compassion for the world since we are all probably a little angry or anxious from our lack of freedom. I recommend the Stop, Think and Meditate app. It’s pretty nice and the meditations aren’t that long. A lot of people use Insight Timer as well. I have logged in for the past week and it has been very helpful.
- Read- Learning anything is always a way to progress in the world and reading is one of those activities that is not just a distraction but also an activity for personal growth. I think that reading has always brought me new perspectives and allowed me to enjoy my current situation while being present in a new world.
- Video chat and stay connected with family and friends. This has been one of the most comforting tasks for the past 3 weeks and I know it might continue. The continuance of connection allows us to feel present. While we might be physically isolated we are not mentally and emotionally isolated from the world. I am so grateful for the technology we currently have and this has been one of the best ways to cope with any feelings of loneliness.
- Start or continue a passion project- My passion is to help others and ease the burden of others while also being able to provide some advice or education. I use my blog to do that and I am in medical school after all. These are methods I use to spend my time and feel the most achievement while also being productive in my life goals.
So I guess whoever is reading this I am really grateful to all of you because you are able to help me fulfill my passions. I feel like I write these for myself most of the time but I appreciate it when I can help someone else. I love you all and I thank you for reading!