Emotions are high. Stress levels are higher. Looming finals, rising COVID-19 cases and political shifts have us all in a bit of turmoil. As a gentle reminder, it is always important to take care of yourself. I am certainly guilty of refreshing homepages, listening to political podcasts and spending too much time on social media. Here is some wholesome content to brighten your day, focus on some self-care and find some respite from the constant news cycle.  

Podcasts 

• Crime Junkie: Get your heart racing about something other than politics or COVID-19! Each week, dive into a different true crime story, sometimes they’ll be solved and other times the hosts Ashley and Britt will urge you to keep your eyes peeled for any clues. 

• Modern Love: A podcast from the New York Times. The Modern Love Column has been a part of The Times for 16 years, sharing real life stories of love. This podcast explores those stories and essays of love, loss and redemption. These short and sweet episodes will leave a smile on your face.

• Armchair Expert: Get to know the celebrities and experts of our world a little bit better. Actor and Direct Dax Shepherd interviews other actors, artists, writers, psychologists, business owners and more, getting to know the personalities of today’s well known just a little bit better. With twinges of vulnerability and always lots of laughs, join Dax and his co-host Monica as they explore people’s stories. 

• Revisionist History: Malcolm Gladwell brings insight and understanding to the overlooked past. Gladwell may discuss a theory, event, song or figure, but whatever the topic, know you are in for a treat. Sometimes history got it right the first time around, sometimes it needs a second chance.

De-stress tips 

If the average “face mask and a bath” isn’t for you, here are some less trendy but still helpful mindfulness tricks. 

• Make a list of 5 good things that happened that day. Good weather, a productive conversation, feeling accomplished, a cute outfit, etc. No matter what it is, practice gratitude for the happy moments of the day
• Reach out to a friend you haven’t seen in awhile. Grab a coffee or go for a walk and reconnect. 
• Take yourself out on a date. Buy yourself a meal, enjoy a fun activity like a movie, botanical garden, or museum and spend some quality time with yourself. 
• Binge a show you KNOW you like. What makes you smile and feel good? Flipping through channels or your Netflix list can get monotonous. Pick a feel good and actively enjoy your binge time. 
• Put on your favorite outfit. Sometimes simply throwing on something that makes you feel more confident can boost your mood. 
• Make sleep a priority. We have heard it all before but take care of your emotional and physical health by getting your Z’s. Make your room a place of relaxation, free from stress and distraction.
• Put down the technology. During high stress times it is important to be mindful of your consumption of media and news. Stay informed and connected, but don’t drain yourself to the point of fatigue. 

Home remedies 

Derived from the book Simply Living Well, these make at home teas and tinctures will heal your body and mind while reducing your waste and focusing on living well.  

Immunity Tea Paste

Ingredients:

• ½ cup raw honey 
• 5 tsp ground turmeric
• 2 tsp ground ginger 
• ¼ tst freshly ground black pepper 
• Dash of cayenne pepper
• Fresh lemon juice 

Directions: Combine the first five ingredients in a small bowl and mix well to form a paste. Place one teaspoon of the paste into a mug and cover with warm water. Add a squeeze of lemon and stir well to dissolve. Store remaining paste in an airtight container in your cupboard.

Relaxing Herbal Bath Salts

Ingredients:

 2 tbsp Almond oil

5 drops floral essential oils 

5 drops cedarwood essential oil

1 ½ cup pink himilayan salt 

½ cup baking soda 

2 ½ cup Epsom salts

½ dried petals (for appearance) 

Combine wet ingredients in a small bowl until mixed. In a large bowl add all dry ingredients. Add the wet ingredients and mix. Store in a jar with a tight-fitted lid. 

Add a cup to your warm bath water and stir until salts are dissolved. Soak and Relax. 

Move your body

Whether it’s just going for a short walk, focusing on the movement of your breath or  stretching in your apartment, our bodies need to move every once in a while. Movement is linked to our well being. Studies show that moving your body benefits your mental health. During a time of high stress and anxiety, we could all use a little boost. Mind and body are connected. While walks and dance parties in your room may not be a cure all, it is beneficial to embrace the amazing motion of our bodies. We are incredible creatures with bodies made to run, jump, and dance.

•  The New York Times Move section offers a range of movement guides for different body types and capabilities. 
• A quick search on Youtube can open up a world of workout possibilities. A few favorites include Casey Ho’s blogilates, Sara Beth Yoga and searches for dancing workouts!
• Apps like Runkeeper or Nike Training Club, can help motivate you to push that extra mile. Whether you’re just wanting to track a walk or you’re looking for a workout designed specifically for you, apps can send reminders and keep you accountable. 
• Dance playlist. Look them up and dance, hairbrush microphone and all. 

Recipes to try 

Good for your body, better for your soul. Eating a delicious meal or baking some sweet treats can nourish not only your body but you mind as well. Throw on some chill tunes and spend an hour creating some comfort food. 

Comfort Food : Adult Mac and Cheese by Molly Baz at Bon Appetite. 

Chocolate Fix: Vegan No-Bake Brownies from Kim Julie Hansen’s Best of Vegan  

Buttery Goodness: Buttermilk Biscuits from Sally’s Baking addiction 

Bake off Challenge: Test your baking knowledge by trying a recipe from The Great British Bake off  

Don’t be an Idiot Sandwich: Try one of Gordon Ramsay’s famous recipes. 

Coloring Page 

You’re never too old to color! Print this page and grab your markers folks!