Of course, if we were going to do a 2 years rewind, we had to check in/on four of our favorite ladies. Please see their progress during this time below!

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Given that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the world to stop in so many aspects, how have you implemented new self-care techniques?

The world may have stopped for most people, but it went into overdrive for me (LOL). I currently work in a lab and we have been running COVID tests non-stop!!! It was crazy in the beginning....so much confusion, too many questions, and not enough answers (To date, I have been wearing a mask for over 200 days for 8+ hours each day...let’s talk about severe "maskne"). Some days, I was literally coming home, pouring myself a drink, taking a hot shower, and going straight to sleep; and that went on for at least the first two months. One day, I woke up and realized that I could not keep on doing that every single day. I changed some habits as well as picked up new habits.

I finally started back meal prepping for myself, stopped consuming alcohol (but I did have a few drinks for my birthday), developed a new skin care regimen, and I even purchased a bicycle. Some people laughed at the thought of me riding a bicycle and did not think I would take it seriously lol. Honestly, the time that I spend riding on my bicycle is when I can relax my mind and release my thoughts. I even went hiking on a trail with some friends and I look forward to doing that again.

What does self-care look like for you in this moment of universal stillness?

For me, self-care during this time is more about being able to maintain a sound mind whether it is by meditation or prayer. This moment of "stillness" seemed to be hard for people who need to be around other people just to fully function or thrive and thankfully I am the total opposite. I took this time to sit down and rest ALONE. I also found myself checking on other people more whether it was a simple text or phone call. Staying positive and thankful even in times of uncertainty and doubt is what keeps me in a good place mentally. I have been happy and at peace with everything in my life. Just thinking about the time I spent with myself made me dwell on a quote that I read a few years ago.

"Sometimes you need to take a break from everyone and spend time alone, to experience, appreciate, and love yourself." -Robert Tew

How do you suggest others move forward with implementing self-care techniques?

When implementing self-care techniques, do what makes you happy and what makes you feel good. Try something new and different if possible. Get rid of things that don't make you happy even if that means prioritizing, rearranging or removing some people in your life; Create boundaries. At the end of the day, the only thing that matters is YOU and your well-being....and no one else is responsible for that except for you. If you need to be alone, then spend some time alone. If you need to be with other people, then find a friend or two to enjoy an experience together.

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Given that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the world to stop in so many aspects, how have you implemented new self-care techniques?

I have found it necessary to give myself 1.5-2hrs each morning to myself and implementing some type of self-care activity. I definitely notice a decrease in irritability and increase in patience when I place myself first upon waking up.

What does self-care look like for you in this moment of universal stillness?

Self-care is about being creative with multitasking during this time. For example I do 3-5 miles of cardio while listening to an audible book or listening to Summer Walker with candles lit while having a glass of wine as I type my daily notes. Self-care is also avoidance. I purposely gauge my energy and vibe by screening calls, texts, DM’s and etc. I no longer respond to everything immediately and take breaks away from people and social media for hours throughout my days to maintain a healthy balance.

How do you suggest others move forward with implementing self-care techniques?

Find what works for you during the pandemic and don’t compare it to how you functioned pre-pandemic. At one point I could see 11-12 clients per day face-to-face, so when I found myself feeling overwhelmed seeing that man via teletherapy I had to scale down to 5-6 clients per day. Initially I felt like my ability to counsel was declining, but it wasn’t. I just need to recognize my new work capacity. Time and circumstances changes things, so be receptive to what change looks like for you currently without holding yourself to a standard of the past. That standard no longer exists.

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Given that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the world to stop in so many aspects, how have you implemented new self-care techniques?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, incorporating self-care has been a huge part of my daily routine. I have always made some aspects of self-care a priority; however, due to the pandemic I have begin practicing self-care more than ever to survive and thrive during this time. For example, my day starts with a daily devotion; green tea with turmeric and ginger; and stretching. I have been a lot more consistent with my spiritual journey, healthy habits, and mindfulness.

What does self-care look like for you in this moment of universal stillness?

In this moment of universal stillness, decompressing and detaching throughout my day has allowed me to reset my mind and body. I often experience burnout and fatigue trying to manage my professional and personal life. It has been essential for me during this time to tune out the noise. I'm starting to recognize my limits and when to slow down.

How do you suggest others move forward with implementing self-care techniques?

You must realize the importance of taking care of yourself. It's not vain or conceited to take the time to care for you. Besides, how can you be the person you need to be for others if you do not take care of yourself. Start with identifying what makes you happy and the things you enjoy. Begin incorporating those things into your daily routine. 

__________________________________________________________________________________ Given that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the world to stop in so many aspects, how have you implemented new self-care techniques?

I now do more things outside like take walks or jog. I am more conscious to remove myself from being overwhelmed rather it is from watching the news, social media and/or people so that means more alone time. What does self-care look like for you in this moment of universal stillness?

I am a social person so I miss social gatherings and outings. However I have introvert tendencies. I have now put more focus on myself with diet, exercise, spirituality and my mental health.

How do you suggest others move forward with implementing self-care techniques?

I recommend that others move forward with continuing to check in with yourself. Ask yourself how are you doing? What are you feeling? For them to focus on what is important like their mental well-being, physical health and family/friends. Also prioritize your attention and time to things that are important.