The recent COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in Malaysia has left many people in shock and panic. Many people panic even more as the Movement Control Order took effect on Wednesday (18 March 2020). 

However, instead of panicking about it, take this chance to get your life together again and take a break from your hectic lifestyle. Here are 7 simple and easy acts of self-care during the Movement Control Order.

1. Disconnect from the Noise

The media is full of bad news during the pandemic outbreak. Stop taking in excessive content that adds to your fear, stress, and anxiety. There is a fine line between staying informed about the latest news and giving into the ego that loves drama. Thus, limit your time on social media and have some social media detox if you can.

2. Journalling 

Journalling is an excellent tool to put your thoughts and emotions down and work through them. It helps to relieve one's stress and anxiety and increases productivity. Keeping a journal can be really helpful for chaotic times like this.

3. Declutter Your Home

With our busy lives, how long has it been since we last cleaned our home? Cleaning up your space will leave you feeling fresh and collected. A clean and tidy space can affect our mental clarity as well. Our mind will be more clear and calm when we have a neat space.

4. Meditate

Meditation also helps in calming down the mind and relieve stress and anxiety. Even when the world seems out of place, meditation and working on your inner self can help you to stay grounded and peaceful.

5. Exercise

Exercising does not mean that you should head to the gym. You can work out at home as well. Exercises like yoga and pilates are less intense workouts that improve your blood circulation and flexibility. On the other hand, exercises like dance cardio and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts can be suitable for those who seek to have their blood pumping.

These exercises require no equipment at all. All you need is yourself and preferably a pair of good shoes and a yoga mat to get started. 

6. Read

There's nothing like getting lost in a good book. Whatever genre that maybe - romance, science fiction or biography - be sure to enjoy every page of it. Reading boosts your imagination and also keeps you entertained.

Thus, grab a good book from your bookshelf or e-library and get comfortable. There are many reading apps available if you cannot find a book in the house. 

7. Find New Hobbies

The Movement Control Order gives us a chance to finally take the time to do the things that spark joy in us. Try different and interesting activities that you've been putting on the back burner all this while. You'll be surprised by what you can learn. 

On a final note, hope everyone is safely at home and practicing proper precautionary measure towards COVID-19 as well.