We are in a situation where life is changing and unpredictable. Words like “quarantine” and “isolation” are being used regularly and triggering us to feel in danger.

The key to taking care of your emotional wellbeing is understanding what makes you anxious and making changes. Start with these small steps that put together by our Wellbeing Advisor, Ms. Suzie Johnson from Repton Dubai:

1. Watch your language

• Instead of “social isolation” say “staying safe” or “staying indoors”
• Instead of “quarantine” say “keeping myself and others safe”
• Instead of “social distancing” say “standing 2 meters apart”
• Avoid saying the word “don’t”

2. Identify and change your thinking habits

Patterns of thinking or ‘cognitive mistakes are linked to:

• Emotional/mental rigidity vs agility/flexibility
• Anxiety and depression

Some types of cognitive mistakes are:

• Catastrophizing
• Minimizing or magnifying
• Fallacy of control

3. Focus on what you can control

• You cannot and will not control everything
• Control what you can
• Do what you can do
• Actions are empowering and counteract fear –do not wait for motivation
• Visualize letting go

4. Build your immunity

• Reduce stress
• Reduce blue light exposure
• Eat healthy
• Hydrate
• Take your vitamins

5. Make your home a sanctuary

• Declutter
• Decorate
• Aromatherapy

6. Limit the negativity

• Stay close to the present moment
• Limit news and sources
• Highlight the positive in your daily life
• Stay connected through online hangouts