NYC has finally fully re-opened after 1 year, 3 months, 1 week, and 3 days of covid restrictions. 70 percent of the state has been fully vaccinated, and so much of our world has changed (and remained the same - namely, sweatpants) during that time. I have mixed feelings of excitement and dread about the world getting back to its regularly scheduled programming. But most of all, I am so happy that people are getting back to health, back to work, and that our health care workers have the pressure taken off them and will be celebrated in a parade in NYC on July 7th. Three cheers for vaccinations!
I have been thinking about the ways we will re-emerge into the world after months of covid hibernation. It is high time to boost your spirits and your health. It is time to pamper yourself a bit, I think. Here are some of the suggestions I am trying:
Putting on some real clothing. No more yoga pants, PJs, or slippers but instead capris, nice tops, and actual shoes. Sneakers or sandals will do as well. Going for a walk or even to the grocery store in “real” clothing, I felt simultaneously like my old self, but a new and improved version.
Live music is back! I want to listen to some live music while minding my social distance. Many artists are offering solo performances outdoors. Check the local newspaper for show dates and venues. I find music calming and a stress reducer, in an often, beautiful setting. Two great things together, music and nature - what could be better! Bring your mask, sit six feet apart from others (just to be safe), and soak in the music.
Hug someone (assuming both parties have been vaccinated). Boy, have I missed hugging my family members, especially my younger nieces and nephews. High fives were just not cutting it! I could feel my blood pressure go down and could not stop smiling as the hugging resumed.
Check in with a therapist if you are suffering from stress, anxiety, or depression after all of these months of isolation. Many people have needed some help as they resume a bit of “normal” life. This will pass in time and is not a sign of weakness. I find paying an unbiased person to talk to about my problems can be so helpful and offer a different kind of relief.
Pay attention to your smile. It can be a real mood booster for you and everyone else you meet. Smiling behind your mask is just not the same.
It is high time for some self-pampering. Go to a spa and treat yourself to a massage. Make sure they are a spa that has been observing covid safety protocol, and many have. I felt like a brand new woman after acupuncture and a massage.
Plan a short trip. You will really look forward to getting out of the house and seeing what a new place has to offer after all this time spent indoors. My perfect get-away includes a long walk or hike and lots of nature to improve my mood and heart health. Just planning a trip can be filled with excitement and a huge mood booster!
As I transition to our new normal, these activities have helped a ton. I still wear my mask when I go walking every day. At least it keeps out the pollen during allergy season! I am healthier with the mask on and will continue wearing it to avoid seasonal allergy attacks. Keeps out the germs and pollen. Woohoo!
How do you feel now that the world is getting back to normal? Is there an activity that you have found helpful? Let me know in the comments and stay well, feisty ladies.