Strategies for Sheltering Solo
Depending on where you are, some of the shelter in place guidelines may be starting to loosen up a little. Some are celebrating and some are looking out their window wondering if they want anything to do with outdoor foolishness without a vaccine, national plan, or an immune system that can support the protesters that refuse to wear masks or support community protection in any real way. I understand, and this is a judgment-free zone! If you are voluntarily or involuntarily pacing your way back to full social engagement outside, here are a few tips that may help.
Curate Your Space. Many of us are low on energy, so this doesn’t need to be a full HGTV type production. Is there a room, space, or an unused area in your place that could be repurposed to reflect or support an activity that brings you joy? Whether it’s writing, sleeping, yoga, or watching Netflix, create it as a destination spot you can look forward to visiting. Paint it, organize it, or shift the energy in there so that you have a space that separates you from the monotony. I am creating one in the corner of my yard, so it can be inside or outside! Be as creative or simple as you need to be, and enjoy it!
Make Self Love Appointments. In times of stress, the first thing that is usually overlooked is ourselves! What can you do that represents a moment of love on your behalf? Make a legitimate appointment for a pedicure, bubble batch, silly movie, or whatever brings you peace. Put it in your calendar! (God knows my pages are mad empty in there otherwise) Look forward to it. Enjoy it. Take actual time to reflect on how you feel after it is completed so you are aware of how much you want and need to do it again. Repeat as necessary.
Journal for Yourself or Write to Others. Grab a diary where you can write thoughts and notes. You don’t have to do it every day, but dedicate some time to the gift of your thinking. Being able to look back at the progress you’ve made, the courage you’ve built, and the positive habits you’ve formed can be amazingly helpful once we hit our stride in the new normal. If journaling just isn’t your ministry, then send the gift of your words to those you miss the most. Write a letter! Grab some stationery from Paper Source online, your local office store, Amazon, or your preferred spot. Let someone know how much they matter to you. I am a fan of sending letters. They are more accessible than an old social media post, and usually, elicit some level of joy in the recipient and the sender.
I hope this is helpful! If you are looking for a good journal to get you started, take a look at the Wisdom in Pieces Journal! This is a great piece to start off your journaling experience. For more information or to get your own copy, click here. Be safe, and have a great day!