What does “cabin fever” feel like? 🏠In self-quarantine it’s highly likely that you’ve been noticing what seems like a different version of yourself – maybe one that’s more irritable, restless, discontented and an all-around trapped feeling. That’s “Cabin Fever,” refers to the sense of feeling trapped when you’re stuck in the house for too long.
Although it can be difficult, it’s necessary to combat these feelings and stay home during the COVID-19 quarantine in order to protect yourself and your community. Not sure how to do that? We’ve got some ideas for you:
Spend some time connecting with nature – whatever this looks like to you. If you are part of a high-risk group, this can be especially challenging, but experiencing nature is essential to sound mental health: consider opening the windows, investing in some houseplants (these can be ordered online!), immersing yourself in a nature documentary, or simply playing some nature-oriented ambient noises.
Make exercise a priority – you don’t have to launch yourself into an everyday circuit routine to reap the benefits exercise has to offer. Try clearing your head with whatever form of exercise calls to you, do some gentle yoga, or play some music and just dance like crazy. If you have kids, consider involving them and making it a game!
Experience some peace and quiet. This one might seem counterintuitive, but cabin fever can actually stem from being overwhelmed or overstimulated. If you are working from home with kids or roommates for example, what you really might need is simply some time alone. Consider purchasing some noise-canceling headphones, indulging yourself in a mindful and serene bath, or giving ASMR a try.
If you can’t leave your space, consider changing it. Make your environment feel more habitable and less routine with a reorganization or redecoration – you’ll be surprised how effective this can be at making you see your space in a new light. Since we are all spending an un-ordinarily large amount of time at home, we suggest that you prioritize spaciousness, reduce clutter, and do your best to keep things as clean as possible. You can also switch up the lighting in your space and play around with creating a vision board for what you’ll do after the quarantine to brighten up your space!
Try Indulging yourself in a form of escapism. Are you a gamer? Do you like reading? How about meditation? All of these are ways that you can transport your mind someplace else and not focus so much on your current situation. Even binge-watching your favorite tv shows or movies can help you feel a form of escape – even if it’s only for a few hours.
And remember, this isn’t permanent. Try to see this time as a gift to reset yourself and enjoy your life from a different perspective, it will be back to normal before we know it!