There has been some positive news coming from state and local governments, both have been expressing a vision of easing restrictions. The state outlined indicators for their easing restrictions, while locally it was expressed that we are on track for a removal of the park/beach ban and it’s likely after May 4th there will be a slow, gradual easing of some restrictions. Finally, light at the end of the tunnel!
If you are like me, the change in lifestyle is truly beginning to weigh. As I acknowledge the limits and restrictions, I am allowing myself to be grateful for what I can do - and be hopeful for what’s to come.
So what are some things we can do NOW to feel good about our situation?
Here are my thoughts, what are some of yours?
If you live with your partner: Do a date night! You don’t need to go out to have a fun evening. Get dressed up, sit outside, make yourself some cheese and crackers, listen to music and hide your phones inside.
If you have kids:
- Plan a scavenger hunt either in your home or around your yard. Pick an easy, small reward. They will just be happy with the activity
- Have your family make a memory box of the shelter in place. Draw a picture of the time, have them draw themselves, how they spend their day, etc.
- Pick a book and do a family reading hour, turn off all of the phones, and trade off family members to read aloud.
- Formal family dinner night! Choose one night a week to be fancy! Spice it up and have a different type of meal each time.
- Do-it-yourself Pictionary! You don’t need the actual game to use the concept! A great, easy and interactive game to just have some fun and laugh.
Staying Healthy:
Many of us are still working, or are doing home schooling, or just dealing with life in general so it can be hard to put aside time for yourself. In times like these, it is a must though.
- If you can’t get out of the house for a walk or run, take the opportunity to do any number of work outs at home. There are countless online videos available to fit any time of experience level or work out type*
- Meditate - Whatever your thoughts on this, you can at least take 10 seconds out of your day to reflect and center. Taking 3 deep inhales and exhales in silence can go a long way.
Personal Growth:
We all have chaotic lives right now - nothing is normal. Try and grasp on to one thing that would broaden your bandwidth. This could be reading one book, expanding your cooking comfort level, learning a language ( hey, at least try), building something ( I have begun a planter box project!), planting a garden, etc. You would be surprised how one small effort can become a huge accomplishment.
If you are capable, give back:
- Help the community by shopping local. We have amazing local businesses, including Shoppers Corner, whose shelves tend to be filled with all the necessities whenever I go. There is also this helpful website of how to help local businesses: https://www.rideoutthewave.org/?mc_cid=14064359f5&mc_eid=d4d18acb7a
- Donate to local food banks.
*please note, I am not a doctor. Please consult a doctor before doing any type of exercise ;-)
Kaelin Wagnermarsh
Santa Cruz County Real Estate Agent
Realtor DRE 01945819
eXp Realty of California
