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Common Tensions in Self-Isolating Families (and How to Address Them)
It’s hard to overstate how much the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted everyday life for Americans. Whether your family has had to adjust to one or more parents working from home, a modified school routine, limited time with friends and family, or any number of other changes, it’s safe to say that this has been a challenging year. And even though the economy has been opening back up in many states, chances are your options for activities outside of your home are still few and far between.
Thus, you are probably spending more time at home with your loved ones. And no matter how much you love each other, this can easily lead to increased tension and stress among one another. So, if things are more tense than usual, know that this is common. However, it’s also essential that you address any issues that could be causing the tension so that you can make your home the happy, healthy place it should be. Below are a few common sources of tension in self-isolating households and ways that you can overcome them:
Unhealthy Routines
One of the most common causes of tension and stress for individuals of all ages is the lack of physical activity and a poor diet. Find an exercise routine that you enjoy. This might mean a different activity for each person in your family, but if possible, try to find one that you can do together as well. True Identity Project is a great resource for restorative yoga practices and training, which can be a fun way to get healthy individually or as a family.
Also, try to limit fattening processed foods, instead opting for healthier alternatives. There are tons of resources online for finding quick, healthy recipes and snack ideas.
Lack of Self-Love
Self-love is a critical part of any healthy life. You might be thinking that your focus should be to show the other members of your household extra love in order to relieve tension and stress. That’s true. However, by showing yourself some love by taking care of your mental, physical, and emotional health, you will have more to give others. Along with getting exercise and eating well, make sure you are getting plenty of sleep each night, and find relaxing activities to do on a regular basis.
Negative Atmosphere
Your living environment can also play a major role in the general stress levels of your household. If you notice that your family is criticizing one another, arguing, or complaining more than normal, check your surroundings. Is it dirty or messy? Brighten up the atmosphere in your home by cleaning, decluttering, and ensuring that you have good indoor air quality.
Too Much Time Inside
Another thing to consider is that being cooped up indoors can cause tension, stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Find some outdoor activities to do together as a family. It could be as simple as playing cornhole in the backyard. Or you could plan a weekend trip to the beach, go for a day hike, or do any other number of things that give you the opportunity to spend quality time together amid nature.
Staying Disconnected
You may not be able to do as many activities with friends and family members outside of your household, but you can still stay connected. Use technology like video chat and social media to keep in touch with those whom you can’t see in person as much as you would like to. This can go a long way and help your self-isolation feel a little less isolating.
Social distancing and other pandemic-related restrictions are in place to slow the spread of the virus and protect our communities. Nonetheless, self-isolating can quickly breed tension and stress. Encourage one another to adopt healthy habits, practice self-care, and contribute toward a cleaner, more positive environment at home. Finally, spend more time outdoors, and take advantage of technology to stay connected to loved ones outside of your home.
Turn to True Identity Project for more information and inspiration like this for your daily journey!
Hiiro Zaké Sigal Prince 