It is fair to say that none of us have ever lived through, or faced something like the current COVID-19 global pandemic on such a big scale before. Together as families, as cities and as a country we have faced disasters (such as the Brisbane floods, or the recent bushfires) and we have come together to overcome these challenges. But with something as large as COVID-19, which is affecting the entire world in different ways, it feels almost surreal, uncomfortable and triggering for a lot of us.

If you are feeling a little bit panicked, your head is scrambled or you're feeling unprepared, firstly know that those feelings (and many others) are completely normal to feel.

The following tips might help you to feel a little bit calmer and more collected during this time:

1. Focus on the areas of your life that you can control, and that make you feel calmer and safer

This could be something as simple as planning your meals, planning your workout routine, or even staying organised while you work from home. If an organised and full freezer helps you to feel calm, remember that we are continuing to deliver every Tuesday to all of our Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunny Coast peeps. 

2. Normalise your response

Know that it is normal to feel anxious, or frustrated, or sad. Try to find comfort in the fact that most people in the world are quarantined and self-isolating and we are all connected in this way. Know that we WILL get through this and it won’t last forever. Feel your emotions but also try to tap into the part of you that knows you will get through this.

3. Try not to over-consume on information

Information seems to be being mass produced right now, and a lot of it is being mixed in from the media, from the government and from social media, causing a panic mix of information. Try not to over-consume, but stay informed and check reputable sources once or twice a day to stay updated.

4. Get back to basics (eat, move, rest)

Remember to eat well, and also to eat enough, but not to over-eat.  If you're eating for emotional reasons, is there something else you could do instead?   Try to slow down, stay grounded and listen to your intuition.  Stay connected with friends and family but remember to be careful of too much screen time, especially late at night, Move your body (especially outside in the natural elements where you can soak up some vitamin D), and remember to REST your body.

5. Optimise your immunity

Optimise and boost your immunity through the foods that you eat. Eat all colours of the rainbow, and even if the grocery stores are empty, there are still amazing dried or frozen items you can buy (frozen veggies and fruit, dried beans and legumes, dried mushrooms).

Cook with immune supporting herbs and spices like garlic, ginger, turmeric, rosemary and coriander. Keep your gut calm by practicing mindful eating, getting some probiotics into your diet, doing light exercise, and getting in your Oxygen. Get enough sleep every night so that your body can heal and repair. And something that is very important for the immune system – try to manage your stress levels. Go for a walk, practice a hobby, take a nap, anything that you know will help to make you feel calmer and less stressed.
 
We have lots more tips and ideas related to what’s going on at the moment over on our blog at https://wholesomeness.com.au/blogs/news. Food waste hacks, tips on stocking your fridge and pantry, home remedies for clearing and preventing phlegm and mucus, plus much more.