Just like you, we are always looking for ways to keep ourselves and our family busy and active as we adjust to the new normal of “Stay home. Stay healthy”. Every day we are giving you a list of 14 things to keep us sharp, in shape, stimulated, busy, or entertained during these unprecedented times. Do one a day for 14 days, or tackle the entire list at once. Just make sure to check back every day for something new.

We know times can be stressful, and we want to help. We care about you and we care about our community. That’s why today’s 14 things are 14 ways to help reduce stress.

  1. Take a Deep Breath – even a few deep breaths can make a drastic improvement on your mood and stress level. Take this a step further and look into meditation.
  2. Listen to Music – It doesn’t matter if the music is soft and calm or busy and fun. Whatever works for you, take a moment and enjoy. Check out this list of upbeat songs.
  3. Eat Healthy – Skip the “comfort food” and nourish your body with fresh whole foods.
  4. Cut Out Caffeine and Alcohol – I know this may seem impossible, but these substances can interfere with your body’s natural order, which can increase stress.
  5. Exercise a Little Every Day – Even though gyms are closed, it’s still important to move your body. Exercise increases blood flow and releases endorphins. Check out this list of ways to stay active.
  6. Prioritize Bedtime – There’s no replacement for a good night’s sleep. Shut off your screens an hour before bedtime and pull out a book instead.
  7. Write Down Your Feelings – When the world feels out of control, it can be helpful to write down your feelings. Everything feels a lot more manageable when it’s written down on paper.
  8. Call a Friend or Loved One – Even during these times of social distancing, you can still take a moment and reconnect with the one’s you love. I’m sure they could use a phone call too.
  9. Go For a Walk – Not only will a walk give you your daily exercise, it also gives you a temporary change of scenery.
  10. Stretch Your Body – Take just a few minutes, and stretch out. You can even do this in bed before you wake up for the day.
  11. Read – Escape the mundane and get lost in a good book. You can even light a candle and sip some tea while you do it. Or, take it a step further and read in the bath!
  12. Reduce Screen Time – All this time at home make it easy to binge your favorite shows – maybe too easy. Make an effort to turn off the tv and put down your phone whenever possible.
  13. Go for a Drive – Explore somewhere new by getting in the car and just driving. Reconnect with nature or explore a new city from the safety of your vehicle.
  14. Do Something Creative You Love – Sing at the top of your lungs, dance like no one is watching, or paint something beautiful. No matter your creative outlet, now is a great time to try something new, or revisit something you used to love.

We know things are stressful right now, and you may be worried about your finances. We have solutions available through our Member Assistance Program, designed to support you. We have a range of resources, such as an Emergency Loan Program, Skip-a-Pay, and our Visa Credit Card special, that can help those who have been impacted.