While different countries are experiencing different stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, we are currently experiencing an Omicron wave in New Zealand, with the virus spreading throughout our community like never before.
The government has produced a checklist of things people may do to prepare for Omicron, in case they need to isolate at home due to being in close contact with the virus or being unwell with it.
But I thought it could be fun to come up with some additional techniques for us sober people to prepare. These are just a few of my opinions; please feel free to add your own in the comments section. What works for me may not work for you, and your suggestions may be ideal for someone else! We are all strengthened, as always, by sharing and assisting one another.
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Make sure you have plenty of your favorite hot beverages on hand.
If you’re feeling under the weather, these will be very relaxing. A warm drink is like a warm hug, and there’s no better way to soothe scratchy throats and trembling bones than with a mug hug. Herbal and green teas are my favorites. A strong black tea, chai latte, coffee, or a lemon, honey, and ginger tea can be your favorite. Make sure you have plenty of your favorite hot beverage on hand, and don’t be afraid to shop a little more extensively or adventurously to supplement your supplies.
Collect all of your soft materials
Bed socks, cardigans, knee rugs, oodies, onsies, and cozy pants are all popular choices. These are the kinds of cozy clothes and accessories we’ll want to wrap ourselves in if we’re sick or just want to stay at home. Since I’ve been sober, I’ve learned that wearing clothing made of incredibly soft materials is a tremendous stress reliever for me. Consider what you could buy before Omicron arrives at your door to provide you with some nice soft comfort. Alternatively, have a look around your house to see what you already have and wash it so it’s ready to use.
Organize your media.
What will keep you occupied while you’re lying about at home? TV? Podcasts? Books? If you’ve seen all Netflix (or your favorite streaming service) has to offer, now is a good time to sign up for a new subscription and gain access to a slew of new viewing options. Podcasts are especially fantastic for late-night listening, and there are so many to choose from! You’ll be able to find a podcast about everything you’re interested in. So you’re set to go, download a few to your device. Reserve some books from your local library online and have them delivered to your local branch, or treat yourself to a couple of new novels (shop local and have them deliver). There’s a lot of fantastic material out there, and if you pick the proper stuff, it may help distract and soothe you. That being said…
Limit your news and social media exposure.
Today, I hurled my phone on the floor and exclaimed, “Enough!” I’d been blindly surfing for a long time, and it was doing me no good. It’s fine to keep up with new advancements and information, but obsessing over it is neither healthy nor beneficial. If you find yourself doing too much doom scrolling, like I did, make a conscious effort to stop. Instead, fill your mind with pleasant things for a while.
Consider rearranging your rooms.
Consider where you’ll be hanging out in your house during any moments of seclusion. If you believe your bedroom is starting to feel a little drab, consider relocating your mattress into the living room for a while. To make a nice and well-padded snuggling zone, gather all of the pillows in the house. If you can’t establish a bedroom in the communal zone, try rearranging the seats to give a different perspective or take advantage of the afternoon sun. My 15-year-old son has stated that if he receives Covid, he intends to bring his Playstation into the main room and spend his days on the couch – I agreed! At this time of sickness and being at home, whatever feels the most pleasant and fun is worth doing.
You can be your own hero.
You are a goddam hero and deserve to be acknowledged as one if you are newly sober – or even a few months into your non-drinking career – and dealing with this pandemic without liquor. Take advantage of every opportunity to be a hero and treat yourself like a king or queen. Bring out your best dinnerware, light that expensive scented candle you’ve been saving, arrange gourmet meals to be delivered – whatever your ultimate treat is, plan it. You’ve earned it.
✮ Keep in mind to connect.
Connecting with other like-minded folks is one of the most basic ways we can look after ourselves in times of distress. You simply cannot type out too many updates here at Living Sober! You are free to post as often as you like! Keep in touch with any friends or family members who make you happy. Attend online meetings or set up a consultation with a professional. Any nice interaction with people is worthwhile, so go for it.