Some of us may be struggling with loneliness if we’re social distancing solo, while others may be juggling kids 24/7 and craving for some alone time; some may be navigating this new reality of working from home, while others may be crossing their fingers for any work whatsoever. We’re all doing our best during this time to navigate the situation as best as we can. And in case you need a reminder: you’re doing a great job.

We’re seeing a lot of discussions on social media about the importance of seizing this time as an opportunity to clean up eating habits, exercise more, meal plan, or be extra productive. But, here’s the thing. These are unprecedented times, and the best thing you may do today is cut yourself some slack. At NutriBullet, we want to support our community in helping you feel your best. And shaming food choices or “lack of motivation” certainly isn’t that.

From a food standpoint, we truly want you to have permission to eat the foods you love. Studies have shown that making foods off limits only makes them more desirable. If you allow yourself to eat the mac ‘n cheese or the blueberry muffin, it actually decreases the likelihood of binging. Comfort food is exactly that – it’s comforting. And right now, we could all use a little comfort.

That’s not to say we want you to rely on comfort food as your only coping mechanism. This is a good time to start exploring and adding more tools to your coping toolbox. You could call a loved one, take a nap, step outside for some fresh air, have a bath, play a board game, listen to music, or try out a DIY face mask (and we have recipes for that below!). Activities like these trigger dopamine, a brain chemical that signals pleasurable feelings – the same way that eating your favorite comfort food does. A 2011 study, for example, found that listening to music – or even just the anticipation of listening to music – lights up the sections in the brain, implicated to release dopamine.

And if you’re finding it difficult to eat meals due to anxiety or stress, given the current situation, try to schedule meals and snacks throughout the day as a reminder that your body needs nourishment. Our high calorie, high protein smoothies, like this Nutrition-Rich Smoothie, are good options – especially for elderly individuals that have a difficult time getting in their daily nutrients due to decreased appetites.

Finally, know that it’s understandable if you’re feeling exhausted and lacking the motivation to take on a new project, read a book, or be fully engaged all day. These are stressful times, and stress causes fatigue. Try to get some extra rest if you can, and know that there’s no right or wrong way to feel right now.

While each of our new realities is unique – we’re all in this together – from all corners of the globe.

We’d love to know if this content resonated with you. And if so, please connect with us on social media @nutribullet. We’re so thankful for our community, and we hope we can be a resource of helpful information and recipes during times of both stress and joy.

And now, for some DIY beauty inspiration:

Everything you need to make these face masks can be found in your kitchen.

Avocado Banana Mask

If your skin is still suffering from the winter blues, give it some TLC with an ultra-moisturizing face mask that’s made with three naturally hydrating ingredients: grape seed oil, banana, and avocado.

Moisturizing Oat Face Mask

Is your favorite beauty products are running low? Or are you watching your wallet? Try this homemade face mask made from yogurt, water, oats, and honey.

Body Sugar Scrub

Exfoliate dead skin away with this simple body sugar scrub.