There is no doubt these are stressful times. Whether you are worried for loved ones, tired of being in the house, or fed up of traipsing around supermarkets looking for flour milk, we have some tips for you!
Don't sweat the small stuff. Annoying as it may be that your partner/child/housemate/family member has made themselves a cup of tea but no one else, or eaten the last bit of Easter egg, just count to 10 and let it go.
Try to keep some kind of routine. This may be eating at particular times, going for a walk after lunch, or watching your favourite soap... basically anything that you can do at around the same time every day. This is also great for kids who may be struggling with the new normal.
Pursue some hobbies. This could be learning something new, baking, sewing, or catching up on all those films you've been meaning to watch.
Spend some time alone. This is especially important if you suddenly have a fuller house than usual or young children. Take a bath, read a book... anything!
Catch up with people you haven't seen for a while. They will appreciate you getting in touch for a chat.
Do some yoga. Naturally I would suggest this! Yoga has a positive impact on mental health. Staying active is important and you can do yoga in your house or garden with very little equipment, if you need a mat get in touch with me for suggestions of good value ones you can get delivered.
If you enjoy cooking, plan some meals you wouldn't usually have time to make or play "Ready, Steady, Cook" with the random stuff in your cupboard.
Get outside. Fresh air and sunlight help to reduce stress. Whether it's sitting in your garden or going for a walk, run, or bike ride it will help enormously with preventing cabin fever as well.
Avoid social media. It can be great for connecting with other people but it can also create a very negative environment and spread misinformation. Leave any groups/pages and unfollow/mute any friends that are bringing you down.
Eat as healthily as you can. No judgement here though! Too much sugar, in particular, can make stress worse and affect energy levels.
Be kind. Especially to yourself. If you find you've accidentally eaten another Easter egg, don't beat yourself up (you may hear the voice of experience here!) If you have school-aged children at home, don't worry about whether you're doing a good job of homeschooling them, all the other children will be in the same boat when they go back.
If you see other people when you go out, make eye contact, smile, and say hello. Someone recently said to me "eye contact is the handshake of the face", so there you go!
What tips do you have for coping with lockdown?
Stay safe and well,
Suzanne x