COVID has done a complete number on us, forcing us here in Melbourne into complete lockdown. Stress levels are peaking as different hats – work, partner, self are all thrown into the mix at home. Some people are thriving, while others are at their wits end.
Here’s a brief run down on what to do to remain sane.
Stay active
If there was ever a time to consider your physical health, now is that time. If you’re a seasoned runner or gym goer, happy days. If you’re traditionally exercise-averse then it might be time to consider weaving small amounts of exercise into your daily routine.
It doesn’t have be much, even a 10 minute walk around the block can do wonders. But the secret is to physically remove yourself from your lockdown space and get out into the world, even it’s just to pound the pavement for a bit. Consider some daily stretches – yoga consistently gets a big endorsement, and we know that these types of movement can stimulate key brain chemicals that will get you feeling a little bit better.
Eat well
The temptation is to snack throughout the day, especially in response to boredom. Start planning out your meals and even treat yourself with something special for dinner. Tackle that recipe you’ve always dreamed about but never attempted. Now is the time to get back to fresh fruit and vegetables and savoir home cooking.
Sleep
Netflix becoming addictive? Are you wading through all 25 seasons of Grey’s Anatomy? Consider heading to bed at a reasonable time each night instead and follow a consistent pattern. With little interaction with the outside world, it is very easy to lose track of days and nights. Groundhog day can feel relentless, but a good night’s sleep can help us process the days events and repair our bodies to fight another day.
Human connections
Possibly the hardest to maintain, but absolutely crucial for emotional wellbeing. We absolutely rely on human contact. Living arrangements can be a huge barrier to connecting with friends and have a quiet honest chat. Perhaps leave these for the walk around the block, or gravitate to the balcony or backyard. Schedule weekly Facetimes with friends and family. Take it upon yourself to give a care call to someone close. Sometimes a random text message asking how you are, can feel like the greatest gift you’ve recently received. Don’t be afraid to reach out.
Cut back on booze and drugs
Five PM just around the corner? Kids driving you spare? The temptation to drown out the cacophony of noises with a cheeky glass of red is ever present. However, the relief is only ever short lived, and the need to prolong the effects leads inevitably to further glasses. This can prove disastrous for your body’s long term health and add extra work to vital organs like your liver and kidneys, leaving you sluggish and demotivated the day after.
Similarly, the temptation is reach for drugs, whether they be in the form of a joint or pill. Both quickly become difficult to monitor, and become habitual leaving you feeling even more down and anxious the next day.
New skills
Apparently one of the gifts of lockdown is having an extra few hours up our collective sleeves, given we no longer have to travel to work. If you’ve ever considered picking up a guitar, or learning Swahili, don’t wait, take this golden opportunity to expand your horizons from the safety of your living room. The act of learning something new, immersing yourself in something creative, can get those endorphins flowing and build wellbeing.
At the end of the day, opening up and being as honest as you can about how you might be feeling is crucial to getting through. And should this prove too difficult, or you’re mood is plummeting despite all your best intentions, then reach for some professional health.
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