Resilience Building in 30 Seconds for COVID-19 Stress

Posted on September 16, 2020 by LeadingAge

Often, stress-relief strategies are avoided because we feel we have no time for them. Today’s focus is on resilience-building/stress-reducing strategies

that only take 30 seconds or less. They can all be continued for longer as you see fit. For bonus resilience building, try to pick one of these and build it into an already existing routine so you are more likely to repeat it. These strategies can foster better sleep, improved mood, relaxation, and improved energy to enhance your emotional well-being despite all the added stress that COVID-19 brings to you personally and professionally.

1. Drink a small glass of water.
2. Stretch a body part that needs it.
3. Apply some warm water to a small washcloth, place this over your face, neck or hands for the remaining seconds.
4. Send a warm greeting to a friend you’ve been wanting to connect with.
5. Pet your furry friend(s).
6. Step outdoors and take at least one deep breath in your nose and out your mouth.
7. Open your shades or move to an area where natural light hits your face.
8. Inhale near something that smells good to you and is non-toxic.
9. Tense and release your fists, shoulders or any other muscle group for a few repetitions.
10. Express your appreciation or give a compliment to a colleague, family member or friend.
11. Add a compliment to yourself for increased resilience building.

For additional quick tips and helpful comments, click here.

LeadingAge Minnesota COVID-19 Staff Coping & Support Hotline
Dr. VanAhn is leading the COVID-19 Staff Coping & Support Hotline. To schedule a 20-minute coaching session on resiliency, call 612-455-8656 or send an email to:covidsupport@acp-mn.com. After the COVID-19 Hotline team receives your message, you will receive a prompt email or call back confirmation regarding the day and time for your coaching session. At the designated time, one of our providers will reach out to you to begin the conversation.

Call content will be kept confidential and not shared with employers or funders. The call is free to all staff thanks to a LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation grant through the Minnesota Department of Human Services. Professionals from Associated Clinic of Psychology will be answering hotline calls.