As life slows down a bit more than many are used to, and stores and restaurants close around town, many have to adjust to this new way of life.
To help them, this Legionaries of Christ priest, Fr. Leopoldo Sayegh, has taken to Instagram to give five tips to make it through the lockdown.
1. Make a Schedule
He suggests writing out a rough “plan” of your day will help you stay organized and decide how you are going to spend your day.
2. Do a variety of activities
Alternate the type of activity, break it up, instead of focusing on one task for multiple hours. This has the ability to make it seem like the day is very diverse, full of multiple activities like sports, prayer, reading, and work.
3. Create a habit of daily prayer
Each day, put aside an exclusive amount of time to speak with God and be in His presence. Dive into the Bible or other devotional books, pray the rosary or simply pray the Hail Mary, meditating on each and every word.
4. Get out of yourself
Find creative ways to virtually meet and encounter people who could be suffering a lot during this period. One example of this are Pope Francis' daily Masses.
Fr. Leonardo especially mentions those who are lonely, elderly or in need of help. He recommends spending time on video calls to remind them that they are important and loved.
5. Remember the simple daily pleasures
He reminds everyone that traveling and doing extraordinary actions is not actually necessary in life. What is essential is gratitude. So he recommends thanking God everyday for concrete things He has given you and put in your life.
While everyone hopes this lockdown period will soon be over, it's important to remain in the present, make the most of the time at home and practice these five simple steps to a more productive quarantine.
Melissa Butz