When I left Bermuda on March 16 to see a musical performance that my daughter was in, I never expected to come back and shut down my classes, hear about social distancing measures and be in mandatory self-quarantine for two weeks.

While I fully understand the extreme necessity for everyone to stay home, it has affected us all on some level. I am quite the extrovert.

This new routine has truly filled me with anxiety, and borderline depression. Over the last few days I’ve been thinking and reading of ways that I can adjust to this new normal. I hope that you may find them useful as well.

• Create a new routine

I’m so used to being on the go. So now I’ve decided to wake up, change out of my pyjamas, shower and make a to-do list of all the things I want to achieve each day to create a sense of normality.

• Break up your day

Find tasks to break up your day, change your environment for different activities and get active. Most trainers have adapted to an online platform. Support them. No it won’t be like it used to be, but it will help you get back to your normal routine.

• Take care of your body

It’s so tempting to fill up on comfort foods being at home 24/7. Now that you have more time, plan your meals and eat healthily.

Schedule those special treats to avoid overindulging.

• Help others

If you’re not under strict quarantine rules yourself, and you’re in a position to do so, find ways to support those in need by offering to run errands and collect supplies for them. There are so many ways to virtually help support your local, small businesses as well. A lot of places are offering various home goods and online classes. You could also try and find ways to donate to those in need.

• Stay connected

Make the most of your technology and stay in touch with friends and family via phone calls, texts, and social media.

•Limit media intake

I’ve received a dozen forwards of voice notes, photos and questionable information. Try and stay informed about the situation via reliable sources, but limit your news and social media to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

•Rid yourself of boredom

Make the most of your time by reading a new book or catching up on your Netflix series, or picking up that project that you haven’t had time for to beat boredom and stay mentally active.

•Avoid burnout

Even though you may find yourself with more time on your hands, set strict limits to your work to avoid becoming overwhelmed and make time to unwind.

•Focus on the positives

This is a biggie for me. Today, I had my first online training session. I’m so thrilled to be working again. Let’s also take time to be hugely thankful for the healthcare providers, grocery store employees, delivery workers and everyone working tirelessly for Bermuda!

• Take one day at a time

I have truly not been taking one day at a time. I basically summed up that my career was over and the world had officially ended. However, I’m back now and want to remind you to not project too far into the future. Remember that these are temporary and necessary measures and we will get through this together.

Stay positive, temporarily socially distant and B-Active For Life!

•Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for B. ActiveForLife on Facebook