From Restriction to Relaxation

For many the gradual easing of pandemic restrictions brings longed-for opportunities to get back to the office, have fewer Zoom meetings, play or attend sports and be with family and friends in real space. Effective 12:01 a.m. May 31, 2021, Pennsylvania will eliminate all temporary capacity limits on businesses, keeping only the state’s masking order in place. Because of this masking order, many businesses may still require masks to enter.

Many people are vaccinated and are happy about the anticipated changes and readjustments. However, one may be feeling hesitant, anxious, or uncertain.  Just as it took time to adapt to the restrictions put into place at the beginning of the pandemic, it may take time to adapt to life changing again…., but that’s okay! Remember, you have the power of choice and should only do as comfortable. Also, don’t forget, continuing to wash hands frequently, keeps us all healthy.

Listed below are some tips to help you help yourself and others to ease into a new journey.

Be kind to yourself – Everyone’s situation is unique. It is really important not to judge oneself too harshly based on what other people are doing.

Ease back into activities – Start small if you are able. Take some time to think about what you do and don’t want to do socially. It’s not necessary to begin all activities at once.  Try one activity at a time to prevent being overwhelmed.

Social Anxiety – Avoiding social situations completely isn’t helpful.  Say “no” to some things that you may not feel ready for.  Some things may be different as you ease into the new norms, for instance, whether people hug each other.  It may be helpful to remember that there will be other people feeling as unsure as you are.  Trying to focus on putting the other person at ease can be a good way of managing your own social anxiety, as well as being helpful to them.

Reach out to others – It’s not necessary to go out visiting family and friends each time you want to reach out.  You determine the best way for you to communicate and check in on others.  Let them know how you are doing as well.  Share your thoughts, concerns, and positive feelings about the changes.  Discuss what they are planning to do with the eased restrictions.  There may be something you can do together to make the transition easier for both of you.

Continue practicing self-care – The restricted time during the pandemic has been a good opportunity to make time for ourselves.  But this doesn’t have to stop as we ease into new norms.  Look at the restricted time as a tool by asking yourself, what you enjoyed during the time of restriction?   Also ask yourself, what did you find yourself missing?  These two questions should help you build an idea of what you need more of to stay happy!

The biggest reminder while transitioning to a new normal is to be safe in your actions and to be kind to yourself and to others!