Social distancing is a totally new concept. It is leaving teens across the country feeling sad and confused. But it doesn’t have to be this way. This is uncharted territory for every high school student in America and all across the globe. No one was prepared for this but here we are. It is bringing upon changes that none of us ever expected, and it is a mentally challenging time. But I am here to help and hopefully make our time at home a little bit easier and maybe even fun! 

Tip #1: Have a clean work space.  

Having a clean space to work is key. Whether it’s a space at your kitchen counter or at a desk in your room. Pick a spot and stick to it, this will signal to your body and brain that it is “work time.” You can make it fun too – light a candle, listen to your favorite music, do everything you couldn’t do if you were working at school! PLEASE PLEASE try not to do work in your bed! That’s a place for rest and will signal that to your body and brain making your work time unproductive.

Tip#2: Have a daily plan. 

You get to create your own schedule! No more bell signaling it’s time to switch gears to a new assignment. Start your day by checking Google Classroom and write down what you want to get done for the day, and block out your time. For example: 30 minutes of English, then an hour of math, and so on. Stick to your schedule and check things off as you go! Repeat your plan Monday-Friday, but do not forget to relax on the weekend. This cannot be treated as an infinite snow day. We are in this for the long haul, making it important to have a routine to create your new normal! 

Tip#3: Stay active! 

Utilize online workout classes to let out all of your nervous energy.  It doesn’t have to be anything too intense or long, even five minutes of a gentle yoga flow can relax your nervous system.  Or, get outside and go for a walk or bike ride (maintaining 6ft distance from others). I know that staying indoors all day can make you feel trapped so take a nice long walk or run and listen to your favorite artist or podcast. This change of scenery will boost your mood, reduce anxiety, aid in sleep, and allow for better interactions at home. Even if you do not exercise regularly you are used to walking from class to class and participating in gym which exerts more energy than you think. This is the perfect time to get creative and have fun while moving your body.  Try something new and find peace in being a beginner! 

I know that this time of social distancing can feel very isolating. It is extremely important to check in with yourself mentally. Do not hesitate to reach out to our school’s teachers and counselors if you are struggling. We are all in this together. Westhampton Beach will come back stronger than ever!