"These are unprecedented times".

Something we keep hearing a lot. But with all the uncertainty, let's put our attention on what we can do to keep grounded.

David Bird Cognitive Hypnotherapy Leighton Buzzard and Milton Keynes, Help coping with COVID-19 Coronavirus Lockdown Stress and Anxiety

1 Remember To Breathe

When stressed or anxious, our breathing changes. We breathe shallow, high in the chest. Our brains get the message we're in danger. Stress hormones kick in. Overthinking starts.

Diaphragmatic breathing helps keep us calm. Breathe deep into your belly. Make the out-breath longer than the in-breath. Do it for two minutes. Notice the difference.

Search '7-11 breathing' for more.

2 Get Some Structure

A break in routine is great. But too much can erode self-esteem. We need some regularity.

Get up at a regular time. Keep a morning routine. Plan your day. Things involving others are harder to cancel or push back.

Have some variety too. Too much sameness brings stuckness. Mix things up.

3 Stay Connected

Nowadays, isolation doesn't have to be solitary confinement. We're a social species. We do better with others. Even if it's digitally.

Zoom, Skype, FaceTime. The new Houseparty app. Even WhatsApp does video calls.

The connection hormone, Oxytocin, is a natural anti-stressor. Connect with someone you can really open up to. Samaritans are always there (dial 116 123).

4 Focus On What You CAN Do

Anxiety increases when we have a problem we aren't doing something about. Cue feeling helpless. Taking control puts us at cause, rather than effect.

Accept what can't be changed. The restrictions. Cut off from loved ones. Lack of supermarket stock. But sometimes we can shift perspective. What can you do instead?

Take action where you can. Arrange video calls. Ask when deliveries are. Keep on top of daily chores. Keep problem-solving. Persist. Or try something different. Notice small wins. Pushing on can be tough. Giving up feels worse.

Exercise. A little every day. Get those mood-boosting endorphins going. Get outside. Sunshine and fresh air does wonders.

Self-care. Watch less news. Limit social media. Read or watch something funny. Run a hot bath. Take time for you. What brings you positivity? Do more of that.

Be creative. Write. Draw. Cook. Learn something. Experiment. Put something out into the world. We feel better producing than consuming.

Random acts of kindness. Send someone a message. Donate to charity. Pay a compliment. Helping others helps us feel good.

Gratitude. Switch perspective. What can you be grateful for today? Big or small. Simple, but research-proven to lift spirits.

Self-compassion. It's ok to be not-ok. Some days are like that. Do what you can. Be kind about what you can't.

Google the things on this list for more ideas. That's taking control.

(Struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or feeling stuck in the COVID-19 coronavirus lockdown? Cognitive Hypnotherapy in Leighton Buzzard can help you. Get in touch to learn how)