It’s taken me a bit to wrap my head around 2020 being here, none-the-less an entirely new decade. Just when I felt like things were looking up and I was finding a groove as a new mom and entrepreneur… the breaking news hits with the terrifying announcement of a pandemic.

I know I’m not alone here to admit I’ve been dealing with an immense amount of anxiety over the last few weeks. So I wanted to write a post that addressed the topic with a virtual hug from my quarantined home to yours.

Because ensuring our mental health is in good shape is just as good as keeping our hands clean.

Anxiety is a far too prevalent feeling amongst Americans. It’s the most common of mental disorders and will affect approximately 30% of adults at some point in their lives. Scary.

As someone who’s fairly new to experiencing these feelings of over-stressing, over-worrying and over-thinking, I’m dedicated to trying my best at getting ahead of it all. Absorbing all of the tips, testing them out and sharing out for the broader good.

Because we’re not alone in this time. In fact, we’re all so united — more than ever.

Here are some ways I’ve come across to beat anxiety during these times at home —

REGULAR MEDITATION

A practice I’ve fallen out of lately but every time I dive back in, I become so much lighter and think with so much more clarity. I use my Calm app but have loved using Headspace and Insight Timer as well. Or, if you find a mantra you’d like to live by for the day or week, simply repeat it in your mind or out loud while taking deep breaths.

SIPPING A HOT CUP OF TEA

I’ve been loving the bedtime ritual of taking a cup to bed with me before I get washed up to calm me down. I’m a big fan of Yogi Tea blends and have been loving their Bedtime & Honey Lavender Stress Relief. Hot water with lemon is also a great way to keep you hydrated through the night while helping the body to rid toxins.

SOAKING IN A WARM BATH

Though we’re ways out from having a standalone soaking tub, the times I make it a point to deep clean our tub (germaphobe) and hop in for a bath are the best. The noise of the gushing water. The smells of eucalyptus and peppermint I like to add-in. Light a candle, take as many deep breaths as possible and just try to relax…

COOKING A NEW MEAL

I’m trying to get better at this. I want so badly to be drawn to my kitchen for an escape into the creation of a delicious meal for my family. I know I’ll get there someday. For now, the simple act of doing something to relieve some tension is the cure. I’ve been really into soups lately and have adored visiting So Fresh N So Green & Half Baked Harvest for inspiration on all things YUM.

GETTING LOST IN A NEW BOOK

Whether heads down in paper or ears full of phones — diving into a story can take you away to a better place. I’m a sucker for books on self-improvement but lately have been drawn to biographies of women who have paved their own way. Michelle Obama’s story is a current obsession and this Brene Brown goodie is in the queue next.

A WALK AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Two words — fresh. air. They do a mind, body and soul good. Practicing social distancing is a must. But it can be done while allowing yourself a break to walk your dog around your hood or with your family along the closest trail or lake path. I’ve done this on the daily as Seattle’s spring is really showing up right now with sunny weather in the 50s and 60s. A time we truly crave for months.

A VIDEO CALL WITH A FAMILY MEMBER OR CLOSE FRIEND

Stay in touch with those you love. They will lift you up and they will do the same for you. Now of all times, it’s a time to unite in any way we can. During this digital age of being “always on”, we kinda have to applaud it. It’s so easy it is to slide into a DM, start a video chat or join a live discussion. We have a natural desire for connection — let’s remember to lean on that.

AN IN-HOME WORKOUT

The decision to purchase a Peloton bike two years ago now is still one of the best decisions we’ve made. But there are SO many other ways to stay moving and fit at home. Visit your favorite fitness teacher’s insta profiles. And if you need inspo, check out The Six Studio (offering five free classes daily) and Pure Barre (free live PBGO class).

It’s a crazy time guys, but like any hard time — we have to remember to stay strong and know that this will pass. In the meantime, stay informed. Stay well. And try to stay sane.

If you’re looking for the most accurate and up to date information on the Coronavirus (COVID-19), please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Website