Sam: The Importance of Self-Care

The Covid-19 pandemic has created a new normal for us. Masks and hand sanitizers has been a staple “what’s in my bag” component. This pandemic has impacted each and every one of us directly or indirectly. It is definitely a tough time for all. With the holiday season coming up, I’m sure we all miss being able to gather and celebrate occasions together. We have been creative with celebrating and connecting with families and friends in order to comply with the social distancing restrictions.

My family and I have been keeping our circles close and having virtual dinners or wine nights are a common sight to see. On another note, our school has also transitioned to online learning which was a difficult transition especially with all the added work to try and cope with the lack of in person interaction. At first, I definitely felt lost and overwhelmed but in time, I got used to it and it helped that I shared the same frustrations with my friends who I can rant and laugh with. At some point, I would even feel guilty about resting when I should be doing schoolwork in fear that I would get behind or not perform well. However, we should never feel guilty about prioritizing ourselves whether that be from school or work.

Self-care is a very popular topic amongst my friends and classmates. We often joke about how self-care is essentially not breaking down every other day but all jokes aside, it is very important and beneficial for your overall health. Self-care does not have to be a full-on spa day, sometimes, all we need is a quick walk outside or baking or watching a feel-good movie. Having time for yourself is needed to help alleviate all the stress that we are feeling right now.

Here are some Self-care techniques that has kept me going through all this:

• Channel in your inner Monica Geller and deep clean your space
• Take naps like the child you used to be
• Drag your parents for a quick walk outside (with masks on and practicing social distancing of course)
• Whip up some pastries or savoury meals like Martha Stewart
• Paint/redecorate your space
• Have a carpool karaoke sesh
• Be more active with some home workouts
• Enjoy a warm relaxing bath

“It is not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and to make your happiness a priority. It’s necessary” -Mandy Hale