How did we take care of ourselves during the pandemic?

After almost two years, we are still learning to live with the COVID-19 pandemic. But many of us started paying more attention to our personal health and trying to control what we could. We turned to guided meditation. We shivered in downward dog trying to catch a glimpse of Yoga With Adriene on the screen. We also paraded on social media for hours, sometimes neglecting sleep.

In a series, Verywell explored different trends that have emerged since the pandemic. Our reporters chatted with meditation gurus, sleep researchers, cuddle therapists and fitness influencers about how people got into their new self-care routine.

Exercise at all costs

As gyms and fitness centers closed last year, people turned to exercise bikes like Peloton and workout videos on YouTube. The fear of being a couch potato may have caused some people to exercise more than usual as a coping mechanism. But overall, being stuck at home encouraged those who didn’t exercise a lot to invest more in their personal fitness.

Is it healthy? Yes, but don’t overdo it.

Will this trend last? We hope. Starting a fitness routine is the hardest part, and the many workout options that have emerged during the pandemic have created a whole new generation of exercise enthusiasts.

Monitor sleep quality

Dramatic increases in sleep disruption due to pandemic stress have been dubbed “coronasomnia.” The phenomenon has sparked growing interest in sleep tracking devices like Oura and Whoop rings, as people try to understand their own sleep pattern and quality.

Is it healthy? Sleep tracking can give you a sense of control, but commercially available trackers don’t do a great job of tracking the different stages of sleep.

Will this trend last? Maybe not. It’s getting a little harder to monitor sleep as social activities return.

Book a wellness getaway

Some medical spas and wellness centers have taken advantage of business opportunities to offer packages and retreats for long COVID patients, even if the condition is not well understood. These getaways can involve hot springs, massages, yoga classes, and detox programs. While these practices won’t cure COVID for long, they can still provide relaxation and allow you to decompress, if you can afford the price.

Is it healthy? To each their own, although our experts suspect that many wellness centers are gimmicks.

Will this trend last? Travel industry forecasts say yes.

Hire a virtual hug therapist

Social distancing measures and quarantines can deprive people of human contact. This is where cuddle therapists come in. Before the pandemic, hugs helped people feel comfortable with their own bodies and the sensation of touch. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, some hug lists have started offering virtual therapy where you can still engage in touch exercises via Zoom.

Is it healthy? Yes, especially if you feel uncomfortable with touch and intimacy.

Will this trend last? Perhaps. Cuddle therapists hope the practice will be normalized as more people learn about it

Try a TikTok home remedy

On TikTok, you can find hundreds of DIY health tips and home remedies, from lettuce water to dandelion tea. When the pandemic seemed out of control, some were encouraged to lean into a health-conscious community and take matters into their own hands.

Is it healthy? Some health tips and recipes are legit, but be sure to check out all of TikTok’s health claims.

Will this trend last? Absolutely.

Sit quietly and meditate

While psychotherapy is expensive, meditation is (mostly) free. Although the practice of meditation has been around for thousands of years, mobile apps and virtual sessions have helped meditate mainstream. You can find guided meditation on Headspace whenever you need 10 minutes of quiet, or you can follow meditation gurus who are streaming sessions live on social media.

Is it healthy? Yes, several studies have shown the benefits of meditation.

Will this trend last? Yes!

More alone time, more weed

When schools were closed due to COVID-19, students were deprived of parties and meeting places. Due to social isolation, young people drank less alcohol but turned to marijuana instead. They also seemed to prefer vape pens and edibles to a rolled joint. But since the potency of cannabis has increased dramatically over the years, it poses health risks associated with psychosis, heart problems, and more.

Is it healthy? Moderation is the key.

Will this trend last? Yes, most likely.