Hello, kamusta? Hope you are having a great day today! :)

I found this platform very therapeutic. Not sure if I'm using this platform the right way but I'm back for my second "chitchat". Haha

A few months ago, we were suddenly forced to make huge adjustments due to COVID-19 and I got overwhelmed just like everyone else. This challenging time has made an impact on every one of us in different ways and I'd like to share the things that I'm doing at home to keep myself sane.

Here are some of my tips to cope with the NEW normal:

1. Take a break.
Taking care of your mental and emotional health is as important as taking care of your physical health. I know it's entertaining to browse through your Facebook and Twitter feeds, however, sometimes the things that you see on social media tend to give you so much stress and it is not okay. Have a scheduled social media detox so that you can rest mentally and emotionally. 

2. Exercise.
We all know that we get numerous benefits from working out. You don't need to get a gym membership or go out to get the exercise that you need. Open your laptop, go to YouTube, and search for indoor workouts. I do this several times weekly to shake the stress away.

3. Get yourself a washable facemask.
Instead of buying boxes of disposable masks, buy a washable facemask to save money. There are many budget-friendly washable masks online. Be practical. Go get one.

4. Get an online gig.
I understand that we cannot afford not to earn especially during this difficult time. There are several platforms such as UpWork where you can get online gigs. The pay is good and there's also a chance to get a full-time job in the comfort of your own home. Just make sure that you have a back-up internet connection in case your main connection acts up.

5. Video chat.
Having a constant connection with your loved ones is a huge help in coping with the new normal. Prepare a cup of coffee, grab your smartphone, and talk to your family and friends via Zoom/FaceTime so you won't miss out on any good laugh sessions with them.

6. Create new goals.
COVID-19 has ruined most of the plans that we've created for 2020 and we all know that this pandemic might be sticking around for a little while. Reevaluate your expectations and come up with new goals to focus on.

7. Discover/learn a new hobby.
We are born with incredible skills and talents. Use this time to discover/try something that you've never done before like singing, dancing, cooking/baking, photography, and writing novels. I'm 35 years old and I just recently tried dancing in front of the camera and upload it on TIkTok. It's embarrassing (haha) and fulfilling at the same time. It is something that I've never tried before so why not? :)

8. Take time for some DIYs.
If you run out of things to do at home, try some DIYs. Redecorate your room/house. Repaint your drawers or walls. Declutter. This will give you a whole different vibe and make you feel as if you are staying in a different place.

9. Binge-watch your favorite Netflix series.
There are numerous series on Netflix in different genres that you can watch. Grab a snack and watch any series that you've never seen before. You can also revisit your favorite Korean dramas.

10. Create a journal.
Write a COVID-19 diary. It could be about your thoughts, feelings, what you've done for the day, etc. Aside from being therapeutic, this is also a great journal to revisit once this is all over.

There are a lot of things that we can do to cope with the new normal. Being limited does not mean it is the end. Take it as an opportunity to find alternatives and appreciate new and simple things. I know it's easier said than done. It took me a while to adapt and learn to look at the situation from a different perspective. If I was able to do it, you can do it too. 

We can all survive this. Stay healthy and safe! :)