Thanks to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the entire world is going through a much different experience these days, which is causing many people to feel both stressed and overwhelmed due to the many types of restrictions imposed by their local governments in an attempt to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Despite all of this, it’s still extremely important to take the time to give yourself as much self-care as possible in an attempt to curb those stressful feelings that this type of situation can certainly cause/

Here are four of the greatest ways to take care of yourself during the COVID-19 pandemic.

*First and foremost, consider taking a break from watching the news. While it’s always a good idea to stay updated on all of the latest news regarding the pandemic, trying to take in too much of these updates can become far too overwhelming. This is especially the case if you get your updates from new sources that aren’t exactly too trusted. Regardless, you should always limit your intake of pandemic-related news updates to no more than a couple times per day, and from there, consider spending time on another activity that excites you.

*Another great way to take care of yourself during the COVID-19 pandemic is to take the time to talk to your friends and family members. While many states have imposed specific restrictions that limit in-person gatherings as a way to help prevent the spread of the virus, meaning that there’s likely the chance that you won’t be able to meet up with your loved ones in-person, there are still plenty of other ways that you can keep in touch with them. For instance, consider sending them a text message, calling them on the phone, or even better, conduct a virtual chat with them via Facebook Messenger, FaceTime, or any other type of messenger service that will enable you to actually see each other. Regardless of how you choose to contact one another, be sure to ask them how they’re doing, as well as let them know how you yourself are doing.

*One other great way to ensure that you’re able to take care of yourself during the ongoing pandemic is to stay as active as possible. Exercise is something that is great for both mental and physical health, and there is plenty that you can do in order to ensure that you’re able to stay fit while you have to stay home. For instance, consider browsing through YouTube and looking for your favorite free yoga or fitness workouts, or you can even download some great free mobile apps that offer exciting workouts that will help to keep you fit as well.

*Another useful way to care for yourself during the pandemic is to take the time to declutter. More specifically, select one specific area of your home and spend only five minutes to clean up as much of it as you can as opposed to attempting to power through your entire home in a single day, which can result in you being extremely exhausted and not wanting to do anything else.

Check back to Cheerful Hearts for more daily motivation and happiness hacks!