Many of us are living in lockdown right now. The past couple of months have been a rollercoaster ride, seeing the unprecedented spread of a global pandemic and countries consequently minimizing movement across the borders and encouraging their citizens to stay within the confines of their own homes. Life has changed a lot. We were set into hectic routines of waking, commuting, working, exercising, brief entertainment and bed in the weeks followed by socializing and catching up with family and friends on the weekends. But now, many of us are finding ourselves with time off work, within the confines of our own homes with very little to do. It’s quite the stark contrast. Things can quickly grow dull, tiresome, boring or even saddening – especially combined with a knowledge of what’s going on in the world right now. The important thing is to stay optimistic and to make a conscious effort to help yourself feel occupied and happy in this lockdown situation. Here are a few pieces of advice that can help you to achieve this!
Maintain a Routine
Routine can be key to a sense of stability, security and (consequently) contentedness. Sure, you might not need to be up early in the morning for any particular reason. But if you lie in regularly and nap regularly, you may find yourself staying up later into the night and adjusting to an inconvenient sleep schedule. Instead, rise relatively early, prepare breakfast, have your lunch around the same time each day, cook an evening meal and aim to be in bed for a certain time. Maintaining a routine can help give a sense of normality and be of comfort to you.
Fill Your Day with Activities
Keeping your mind occupied can boost your mood. Doing something rewarding can also elevate how you feel. So, try to be productive. Fill your day with fun activities or things that you’ve been meaning to do for a while, but simply haven’t had time to previously. Read a book that’s been left lying on a shelf for too long. Complete the Best Paint by number for adults. Bake a cake or a loaf of bread from scratch. Try a little yoga or meditation. Try writing. Play some video games. Whatever brings you joy, incorporate it into your routine and take a moment to truly enjoy it.
Keep In Touch with Others
Just because you can’t leave your house, doesn’t mean you have to cut off from the outside world. There are so many ways to keep in touch with your friends, family members and loved ones. Download different apps that allow you to video call and group video calls. Text. Use social media. Phone. Sometimes just having a chat with people you get on with can make all the difference and really lift your mood.
Sure, the times we’re living in may be a little different to what we’re used to. But you should still do your utmost to make the best of each day!
