It’s surprising how much a couple of deep breaths can change your mood. My therapist suggested that, to help transition from work to home, I take a few minutes before entering my home to listen to a song and focus on a single instrument throughout the song while breathing deeply. I’ve noticed that during this exercise, my mind does go into a zen-like state similar to meditation, but I am still aware and my eyes are either open or gently resting.

Afterwards, I’m to say a few affirmations to myself. I have no idea if these affirmations work, but the overall exercise does seen to help me relax and focus on being present at home.

I’ve also been paying more attention to my breathing throughout the day, attempting to encourage more deep breathing as – according to my Apple Watch – I have a low V2 max level. I do notice my breath feeling shallow sometimes throughout the day and feel as though I’m not really intaking air when I inhale. Encouraging deeper breather does seem to maintain my sanity throughout the day and preserve my energy (although I’m waiting for my energy levels to drop again after returning to my normal routine). I think my energy levels are partly increased due to my COVID quarantine and the four days I took off work to rest.