Learning More about Simple Living Because of a Pandemic
Written by Life Coaching Blog on August 15, 2020
COVID-19 may have disrupted many people’s routines, but for some, they also experienced a few benefits. Because of the pandemic, you may have probably learned to simplify your life, and you may have liked the results that you are getting with regards to your relationships and your health.
For example, 59% of fathers have said that they felt close to their kids because of the coronavirus restrictions. This is according to a survey done by the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation.
Most of these men also told the researchers that they want to stay focused on the future, but realized that this would be challenging when they begin to work long hours and resume commuting again.
Is this pandemic making us get back to the basics? You can try some of these tips to do more with less and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Bond more with the Family
Living under one roof may be stressful, but this can also help you strengthen your connection with one another. Say words of appreciation with your loved ones and treat them with respect and kindness.
You Can Try the Following Techniques
- Talk more with each other. You can have the most rewarding and natural conversation with your child when you two are doing the same things together. You can give them more of your time and attention.
- Share the responsibilities inside or outside the home. Children should be allowed to contribute to family life and do chores to be better prepared for adulthood. You can build their self-esteem when you put them in charge of an appropriate task for their age.
- Gently resolve conflicts. When you live under one roof, you are all bound to have disagreements some of the time. You can establish house rules and be willing to compromise with each other to have more harmony.
- Enjoy each other and have fun. Do crafts and play board games. Develop hobbies that everyone can work on together while in the same room.
Stay Fit and Healthy
There are news sources that state Americans are gaining weight and exercising less because of the pandemic. Other sources say that working out and proper nutrition are on the rise. It’s up to you to choose which description fits you.
To help you make wholesome choices, you can use the following strategies:
- Eat more healthy foods. Start cooking at home since you can have control over the portion and ingredients of each menu. Always stock your pantry and fridge with whole foods. Plan healthy menus and limit unhealthy snacks.
- Go Outdoors. Nature and green spaces can lift your spirits, and your workouts will seem to require lesser effort. Play catch or go for a run in your backyard. Look for nearby trails and parks where your family can safely move around while keeping social distance.
- Build a home gym. Use extra space in your home as a strength and cardio training area. Even if you have minimal equipment, you can still do lots of bodyweight exercises inside your home.
- Make time for self-care. Prioritize and safeguard your mental and physical wellbeing. Physical activities, nutrition, and sleep should be at the top of your priorities. Always think positive and repeat affirmations that comfort you.
- Find your purpose. When you are faced with hardships, they are opportunities to help you build your character. You can use this time to create and have a more meaningful life.
Consider these ideas:
- Pray and meditate. You should focus more and invest in your spiritual development. Browse for podcasts and videos online that are being offered by faith communities. Read inspirational articles. Start practicing meditation daily.
- Help other people. Shift your attention to the problems of other people so that you can keep your troubles in perspective. Look for ways on how you can be an online volunteer for your favorite charities. Ask your elderly neighbor if she needs groceries or surprise the older adults around you with a phone call.
- Become an avid learner. Write a list of subjects that you wanted to learn more so that you can advance your career or enrich your personal life. Take courses online and read books. Ask your local library about the books that they can offer through their curb side services or websites.
- Limit your screen time. Don’t fall into the temptation of binge-watching movies and TV shows all day. You can instead use this time and energy in activities that will give you a more excellent payoff.
Nowadays, you’re probably eager to share meals with your friends or send your children to school. On the other hand, the restrictions imposed by the pandemic may have also brought some positive changes in your life that you want to continue. Practicing simple living will make you healthier and happier even if you start cutting back out of necessity.
