Parenting was hard enough before we got thrown into a freaking pandemic. Now it feels like the weight upon our shoulders is even heavier, which means the whole notion of “self care” gets tossed right out the window.

But putting on our own masks (of the oxygen variety in this case) is probably more important now than ever if we’re going to keep all these ships afloat. I’ve found a few different outlets that have been helping me stay somewhat sane as a small business-owning mom of two preschool kids who are now home full time. I wanted to share them here in the hopes that maybe they can help you, too:

Pick up a creative hobby. It may seem like we don’t have time for one more thing – let alone something that seems as frivolous as a new hobby. But the great thing about an artistic outlet is it can actually help channel our anxiety. And I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling a lot more anxious right now during this shutdown. I’ve personally taken to abstract painting (acrylics and watercolors). I’ve also started experimenting with macro photography (check out my fine art prints here). If you think photography would be a good outlet for you, I invite you to join my free photography 101 course here.

Take a rest. Carve out some time to just lie down and be still. No devices, no other agenda, just rest. It seems absolutely indulgent these days to sit and do nothing, and that’s OK. That’s the point. We are trying to handle all the things: work deadlines, zoom meetings, distance-learning, emotional well-being of our children, of our partners, ourselves. We don’t have to fill every single free moment with something productive. Let’s not even talk about how I haven’t mopped my floors in two weeks, okay? So schedule some time for your partner to take over childcare duties (or get the screens out – again) and just go get some device-free time to yourself. I do this during my youngest daughter’s nap, while my older one watches a little bit of TV. Yes, I could be doing 1 million other things (like mopping those floors), but those aren’t going to recharge me.

Make time to connect with friends. When I’m feeling totally overwhelmed, the first thing to go are my connections with friends. Dang, that’s so sad when I actually type it out! I’m going to blame my introverted self for that. When I’m feeling completely drained and tapped out, I just don’t have the energy to invest in being social. But even as an introvert, those friendships do recharge me. They make me feel like a human again, they give me someone to relate to, and they make me feel less alone in this time of isolation. So far I’ve had a socially distanced wine night and a couple of zoom hangouts. It’s not the same as getting together in person and sharing a hug, but at least it’s something! Try to schedule a social interaction at least once a week if not more (especially for all you extroverts out there).

Go for a hike – alone. Being isolated from the world certainly doesn’t mean you’re sitting alone at home (I’m talking about parents here, of course). I need alone now more than ever (helloooo people all up in my space at all times). The great thing about Atlanta is we have so many parks and trails throughout the city. I especially love Arabia Mountain and Hahn Woods. It’s fun to take the kids, too, but sometimes you just need the space.

Get moving. Working out always feels like a chore to me (I wish it didn’t but that’s just the way it is). I know how vital it is not only to my physical health but my mental wellbeing as well. I notice I’m way less stressed and anxious during seasons of life where I make time for physical exercise. Right now that looks like getting more creative throughout the day: stretching or doing squats while folding a load of laundry, jumping on the trampoline with the kids, riding bikes together or coming up with fun games that get our hearts racing. It’s an area I need to work on, but one I know is important for all of us.

Bonus tip: Sit in the sun when you can. This seems so simple, I almost didn’t include it. But sometimes it’s the simple things that are easy to miss! In the early weeks of isolation I found myself pretty focused on things around the house. I might shoo the kids outside, but I wasn’t getting outside much myself. Now, if I notice the sun is shining, I make time to go sit in it, even if just for 10 minutes. Again, it seems so silly, but that simple act really boosts my mood. And here’s some bonus news to go with this bonus tip: Researchers believe vitamin D levels may have an impact on COVID-19 mortality rates.

Now it’s your turn: How are you taking care of yourself during these stressful times? Share your tips and ideas in the comments section!