The coronavirus (COVID19) outbreak is impacting everyone’s daily lives, and it is imperative to ensure you are taking care of both your mind and body while staying at home.
For many, lockdown will present a series of new challenges and force people to create new habits to adapt to day to day life. It is normal to feel bored, lonely and frustrated, but there are ways to make the most of the current situation and ensure your wellbeing is a priority. Although staying at home can be incredibly frustrating and often difficult to stick to a structured routine, we have compiled a quick guide on how best to handle the current situation.
Take regular breaks
In order to maintain a normal work structure, it is essential to take a break from your desk, even if this is to go and make a cup of tea. Taking breaks while working at home can be more challenging, but, by scheduling regular chunks of time away from your desk you will quickly fall into a routine, and when you return, the work you do will be far more productive.
Find a hobby
Whether this is a previous hobby which you no longer had time for, or trying something brand new, finding a hobby helps to escape and ensures you are spending your new-found time wisely. There are many resources online which can help you to choose a hobby that is right for you. This article from The New York Times is a good starting point.
Stay active
Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress and even with the current restrictions that are in place; it is still possible to exercise on a daily basis even from the comfort of your own home. Many personal trainers, such as Joe Wicks are offering workouts for free that can be completed in your living room. Click here to view his YouTube channel that provides a wide variety of workout options.
Stay connected
The current situation means that many people are unable to see their family, friends and colleagues. It is vital to ensure you are regularly connecting with those that are important to you, even if you are feeling fine, others may not be. There have been many ideas posted online on how to try and normalise the situation, from virtual book clubs, coffee mornings, quizzes and general video sessions using video applications.
Switch off
It is essential to be able to switch off once the working day finishes and make sure you detach from your phone and laptop. Similarly, try to avoid watching the news 24/7 and instead schedule a time when you can check the news to avoid being bombarded with constant updates. Another way to switch off at the end of the day is to try meditation, many applications such as calm offer a wide range of videos for free that can help, especially if you are new to meditation.