Tips From Astronauts on How to Self-Isolate Without Going Nuts

It’s not easy to shelter in place, without going nuts. Who better than astronauts to give us some tips on how to survive self-isolation. These tips come from former Space Station commander Chris Hadfield and astronaut Scott Kelly.

1. Do your research, understand the situation, and listen to the experts.  Don’t just be afraid. Find reliable sources, and know the true risks you’re facing.  Having a good grasp on it can help you manage your anxiety. Just don’t get TOO obsessed.

2. Choose some goals, identify the obstacles, and attack those goals.  Think about what you want to accomplish today, this week, and this month.  We can’t do certain things right now, but moving forward is important. So new hobbies are a great idea.

3. Follow a schedule.  If we’re in this for the long haul, you don’t want to drift through each day without a plan.  Having some structure really helps. 

     4. Pace yourself.  Don’t try to do too much each day, or you’ll get burnt out.  Remind yourself to take breaks and make room for fun. When Scott Kelly was on the Space Station, he binge-                        watched “Game of Thrones” twice.  So don’t feel too guilty.  

5. Get outside if you can.  They can’t do it in space, and it’s one of the things they miss most.  If you can’t go outside, just crack a window. Or try this: On the Space Station, they play a lot of nature sounds, like birds and trees rustling in the wind.

6. Keep a journal.  NASA has been studying the effects of self-isolation for decades.  And they’ve found it’s one of the best ways to stop cabin fever.

7. Take time to connect with your loved ones.  Video calls with friends and family are HUGE for astronauts.  So take advantage of it, and appreciate how lucky we are it’s even possible to connect online now.

Like Hadfield says, “There’s never been a better time [in history] to self-isolate.”