LETTER | Covid-19 has been with us since early March 2020. We have gone through many phases of movement control order (MCO) since then. The government has decided to do a total lockdown starting June 1, 2021, due to the rising number of cases.

In addition, only 20 percent of the civil service are allowed to enter the office and 60 percent for the private sector. School, universities and other educational institution are not allowed to operate. 

This means that almost everyone has to stay at home during this lockdown - work from home and online class for students. We are only allowed to go out to buy necessities.

Staying at home 24/7 can be tiring, and it might affect our mental health during this lockdown. Hence, here are a few tips to stay sane during this pandemic that might benefit you.

Stay connected with your friends and family members if you are not staying in the same house since we are not able to see each other physically. 

During your free time, make phone or video calls to check on them and for you to feel less lonely. Having them around virtually can make you feel better since you want to be there for each other.

Next, do some exercise regularly because physical health and mental health go hand in hand. There is a bunch of Youtube videos, programmes and classes online available that you can join and get started. You will sweat your body and your mood will be uplifted better than you can imagine. 

This is because it will lower your cortisol hormone level, which is a stress hormone and promote your body to secrete more serotonin hormones that will boost your mood and help you sleep better.

Before the pandemic, we are busy working every day, but we spend most of our time at home during the pandemic. Hence, you can develop a new hobby during this pandemic and learn something new to distract yourself from stress and gloom. 

For example, you can do gardening, reading, cooking, or baking something you have wanted to learn before. These activities could help you feel less anxious and develop a joyful feeling.  

You also can start journaling to express your feelings and thoughts. When you write, you let your mind analyse the feelings and emotions that you have kept, and you will realise that everything can be fixed. It can relieve stress, alleviate anxiety and also can boost up your mood.

In addition, limit your screen time and media consumption since both can have a bad effect. For example, laptops, TV, and phones contain blue light, which could damage your eyes. 

Moreover, sitting and being on the screen all the time can make you feel tired easily and less productive throughout the day. Read news only from credible sources to prevent fake news that could make you feel fearful and anxious.

During this time of the pandemic, sometimes you don't realise how grateful you are. Spend some time searching for what you are grateful for as it can take you to a deeper sense of fulfilment in life. 

For example, you can feel grateful that you are still alive today and still have your loved ones beside you.

You can also feel grateful for things you have, such as food and pets. This way, you could be happier and feel thankful for what you have in your life.

Apart from all that, the most important thing you should do is listen to your body. Always be motivated and do things that make you feel good and calm. 

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.