Healthy Living

7 Ways to Make Time for Self-Care as You Self-Quarantine

As home quarantine becomes the new normal across the country, it’s natural to experience increased amounts of stress and anxiety. And coping successfully with disruption of our daily routine can become a daily challenge.

Twenty-two percent of Americans reported worsening mental health in the past week, and 29% said their emotional well-being was also taking a hit. No matter how long the situation lasts, it’s critical to make mental and physical health a priority. You’ve likely been seeing lots of suggestions online — here are a few more to add to your list:

1. Say “Om.” Meditation is a great way to center yourself, reduce anxiety and lower blood pressure. If you’re new to the practice, try downloading meditation apps on your phone or tablet, like Calm, Headspace and Sattva, available for Apple and Android devices.

2. Expand your musical horizons. Explore suggested playlists under the Discover tab on Spotify, or use the Radio Garden map to find new favorite radio stations, genres, and artists around the corner or across the globe.

3. Get crafty. Never had time to finish your child’s scrapbook or create a mosaic masterpiece? Let your creative juices flow. Out of supplies? No problem. With online ordering, your favorite tools or materials can be on their way in no time. Retailers like Michael’s are even offering promotions to buy online and pick up curbside without having to leave your vehicle.

4. Start spring cleaning. Did you know that cleaning out closets, clearing out the garage and reorganizing your home office can have unexpected health benefits? More clutter means more stress, and spring cleaning can help improve your mood and make you more productive while working from home. Not only that, but it also increases your activity levels and helps you burn calories — a win-win as far as in-home activities go.

5. Tour new destinations and old favorites online. Take a virtual stroll around Walt Disney World and check out the Magic Kingdom, Epcot and more. Never been to Legoland? Now’s the perfect time to check it out, minus the crowds, or re-live a family trip to Paris with a walking tour of the Louvre. If you want to see the tigers at the world-famous San Diego Zoo or the sharks at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, pull up a chair and start exploring.

6. Maintain social connections. Thanks to apps like Zoom, What’s APP and Skype, you can stay in touch with your family and friends through video calls and chat. Set a regular time catch up over a cup of coffee or virtual happy hour, or let the kids tell grandma and grandpa what they learned in homeschooling that day. It’ll give you something to look forward to and help you feel connected to your loved ones.

7. Start a new workout routine. YouTube and streaming services like Netflix offer a huge variety of workouts for all exercise levels, including yoga, kickboxing, circuit training and more. If you’d prefer to be outside, taking a walk (while maintaining a safe social distance) lets you enjoy the fresh air, burn some calories and elevate your mood.

Don’t let finances add to your stress

If you’re feeling out of sorts, you have every right to be. We’re all navigating unfamiliar territory and trying to make the best of it. But above all else, staying healthy is the priority, so be sure to keep your mental health top of mind.  If you are feeling the stress financially and are a homeowner age 62 or older, you may be able to convert part of your home equity into cash, all while still owning your home. A reverse mortgage loan lets you withdraw funds as a lump-sum payment, a monthly payment or a line of credit, so the money is there when and how you need it.* Keep in mind, you’re still obligated to keep up with loan obligations, including keeping current with the property taxes, insurance, and maintenance.

Curious if a reverse mortgage loan may be right for you? Reach out to Reverse Mortgage Funding at 888-277-1567. We’ll set up an informational in-person appointment with an experienced loan specialist in your area. They’ll review the reverse mortgage loan process, answer your questions and determine if this type of financial tool is a fit for your needs.

This content is sponsored by RMF, one of the nation’s leading reverse mortgage lenders. We are dedicated to helping older Americans retire more freely, in the comfort of their own homes. As a result of our commitment to providing an extraordinary and positive customer experience, we have earned a 98% customer satisfaction rating; a 5-star / Excellent score on Trustpilot; 4.8 out of 5 stars on LendingTree; and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Call 888-277-1567 to speak with a licensed reverse mortgage specialist

*Borrowers who elect a fixed rate loan will receive a single disbursement lump sum payment. Other payment options are available only for adjustable rate mortgages.

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