by Annita M. Taylor, MBA, MSN, APRN, ANP
Sharing a small space during the self-isolation period of COVID-19 can feel claustrophobic. Whether you are sharing the space with your partner, family, or roommates, that trapped feeling can put a damper on your emotions.
Here are a few simple ways to stay positive at this time:
1. Create a small space just for yourself.
Use cushions, plants, small rugs, and candles to create a makeshift nook where you can get cozy with a good book.
2. Schedule some alone time.
When you share a small space, it is difficult to find time for yourself. Sometimes, actually writing it down and setting time as part of your routine helps to make sure you get that much needed alone time.
3. Minimize your screen time.
People don’t realize that they are going from screen to screen without a break, from the phone to the TV, and then to the laptop during this time. This can be straining on the eyes and draining for the mind. Make a conscious effort to cut down on this practice.
4. Meditate.
Meditation is a proven method to help you reduce your stress levels and control anxiety. Take out just 5–10 minutes a day to do some guided breathing, and you will see drastic improvements in your mood and have more positive emotions.
5. Call your friends.
In a small space, you are going to have to make conversation with the same person/people over and over again. Though you might love them, this can often get frustrating and lead to very tense situations. It is good to converse with other people to give each other a break.
6. Be mindful.
This is probably the most important of all, to stay positive, and to help everyone around you stay positive as well. You need to realize that everyone is going through this situation together. It is easy to forget that others might be feeling trapped as well and feel that this is happening to you alone.
7. Make a routine and stick to it.
You can plan your routine with everyone you share the space with so you can stay out of each other’s way when needed and come together to spend quality time.
These are just a few tips on how to stay positive during this time and any other time we share a living space with someone. Remind yourself that you are all in this together, and the goal is to come out of this together!
Stay safe, informed, and healthy!
NP, A.M. Taylor