Tips to Cope with Reopening Fear and Anxiety
Set boundaries and go at your own pace : Take it step by step . Do what is safe and comfortable for you and your loved ones . Everyone can decide on the level of risk they are willing to tolerate . Comfort levels may vary depending on a variety of factors , including vaccination status , personal beliefs , personal health status , health status of friends and family members , or even if they or someone they know contracted COVID-19 .
Stay active and eat healthy : Exercise has a proven positive effect on our mental and physical well-being . Find ways that you can fit exercise into your routine . Although you may not be ready to enter a gym just yet , try a walk outdoors or a home workout . There are lots of free online workouts that you can do from the comfort of your home .
Stick to a routine : Routines offer a way to promote health and wellness through structure and organization and can allow you to build in time for the important things . Routines can help reduce stress , increase sleep quality , and improve overall physical and mental health .
Be patient and flexible : People will approach the reopening differently . This is an adjustment period for everyone , and each individual will deal with it differently . Give yourself and others grace .
Practice mindfulness and pay attention to your body ’ s needs : Some ways to clear your mind and ease anxiety include meditation , journaling , deep breathing , music , or a therapeutic bath . Find what works for you and work it into your routine .
Thinking of travelling : Now that restrictions are beginning to ease , travel may be on the top of the list for some . The idea of travel after a worldwide pandemic can come with different emotions . Some can ’ t wait to book a flight to a sunny destination , while others prefer to push the pause button on travel for now . If the idea of travel appeals to you but you are feeling anxious about hopping on a plane , plan a trip close to home to ease back into the process . Another tip to ease travel anxiety is to pick a place that you have been before or is familiar to you . Anxiety comes from fear of the unknown , and by going somewhere you have been before , you will know what is involved in getting there and you may be familiar with accommodations . Travelling midweek is a good way to avoid larger crowds . You may want to consult a travel agent if you are thinking of travelling ; they can guide you on the quarantine requirements where you are going and the need to present a negative COVID-19 test result before you leave for your destination , when you arrive , and when you return . They will also have knowledge of what restrictions are still in place around the world . Travel insurance is also important if you are thinking about travelling . Visit
arta . net to stay up to date on your coverage as it relates to current travel advisories .
ARTACares is provided by HumanaCare , an Alberta-based health and wellness provider with more than thirty-five years of Canadian health care experience . For more information on health and wellness topics , webinars , and articles , visit your
eldercare portal .
news & views AUTUMN 2021 | 53