With COVID-19 cases back on the rise in the US, many people are growing increasingly worried that there will be more mandated lockdowns in the near future. This fear is being fueled by additional lockdowns back in place across parts of Europe as cases also start to increase across the pond. The good news is that even if there are additinoal lockdown measures put in place, everyone should know what to expect a second time around.

While you can still be hopeful that it will not come to that, it is always a good idea to mentally prepare for the possibility. Even if there are no legally mandated lockdown measures put in place, many families may choose to hunker down at home as much as possible to get through another possible wave of the virus.

Here are four tips that can help you to cope mentally and emotionally with cabin fever if you are forced back inside to quarantine.

Move It, Move It

There is no doubt that being purposeful about getting in physical activity each day can have a significant positive effect on your mental health. Even during the doldrums of winter, you can still stay fit without hitting a crowded gym. Because of the ongoing health crisis, many fitness providers are offering online classes, making it easier to stay in shape without leaving your home. Rather than looking at this time as something to dread, try adjusting your attitude so that you think of it as an opportunity to get healthier.

Redecorate Your Space

Now you have the perfect excuse to redecorate your home. It is easy to justify the expense and the effort if you are going to be spending so much more time in your house. It is amazing what a little refresh will do to boost your mood and make you more content to stay home. If you do not have a big budget for this project, consider experimenting with different lighting elements to try to change the vibe in your favorite rooms. Keeping your living space as clean and organized as possible will also help to avoid become overstressed simply due to clutter. This is a great opportunity to dive into those home improvement and deep cleaning tasks that you have been wishing that you had more time for. Feeling productive and crossing items off of that to-do list will provide an instant booth to your mental well-being.

Find Peace and Quiet

If you live in a space with multiple people, it can be challenging to find mental peace. To combat this overstimulation, it is vital you carve out personal time away from the crowd and the noise. Even if this is just taking an extra long shower, going for a walk outside, or investing in some noise-canceling headphones, it is a good idea to be intentional about finding these moments of solitude amidst the chaos. Do not feel guilty about wanting to take time for yourself, even if it means separating yourself from the people that you love the most.

Immerse Yourself in Mother Nature

A dose of fresh air can do wonders for your spirit. You will feel an instant sense of calm when you connect with Mother Nature. Bonus points if you can combine physical activity with getting outside. If it is too cold to get outside for a long period of time, try opening windows to allow fresh air to flow through your home. Another way to bring the beauty and tranquility of the great outdoors into your home is through the use of houseplants or fresh flowers. Ambient noise featuring ocean waves, birds chirping, or rain falling can also help to make you feel as if you are outside.

If you are struggling with the idea of having to hunker down again, it is important to remember that this is temporary. Eventually, the world will get a handle on this virus. In the meantime, these four tips will help you to maintain your sanity should you need to retreat home again. Having a plan ready will reduce your anxiety and help you to find the silver lining of this challenging time.