Adjusting To Lock Down 2.0
It’s important that whilst we as a community re-enter lock down, that we remember to take care of ourselves, after all, if we don’t take care of ourselves how can we take care of each other?
Whether you are still going into work, working from home, self-isolating or just simply not feeling motivated, 2020 has certainly not been your average year; so we have put together some tips below to help you manage with stress.
START WITH YOU
You might see self-care as selfish, how can you practice self-care and find the time to look after others right? Well we are here to tell you self-care isn’t selfish, and it’s never been more important!
Self-care doesn’t need to be fancy or expensive, often simple is best! Why not try some of the below
- Spend the time to cook yourself a balanced and nutritious meal
- Curl up on the sofa and watch that movie or TV series you have had on your watch list forever!
- Sign up to an online exercise class… Always wanted to try Yoga but hated the thought of going to a class? Now is your chance
- Sit out in your garden, read a book and just breathe in the fresh air
- Take a hot bath or shower… With the door closed!!
- Connect with your friends and family over the phone, via Skype or why not the old-fashioned way and send them a hand written letter
The important thing with self-care is to do what works for you.
STAYING CONNECTED
We touched on this above, social distancing can be the hardest aspect of lock down for some, which is why it is more important than ever to stay connected with colleagues, friends & family. However you choose to connect it may help to reduce stress levels, help you feel less isolated and can help you to stay productive.
WORKING FROM HOME
Working from home may have started off as a novelty, but for long periods of time it can have a negative impact on us. It’s super important to keep on top of how you’re feeling.
It can be harder to maintain a healthy work-life balance when you’re at home all the time. Set a routine as if you are going into work, maintaining a boundary between work and personal life will help you to switch off from work at the end of the day.
REFLECT ON YOUR GOALS
Usually we are so caught up with life that we are left with no energy to reflect on our goals, but with everything slowing down again, use the time to reflect on your goals, evaluate and make some new ones.
They don’t even have to be big. Up skill, learn something new or take on a new hobby.
Finally the most important thing to remember during these uncertain times is..
ITS OKAY TO ASK FOR HELP
If you are feeling overwhelmed and like you are not coping, reach out to friends and family, talk to them remember WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER
There is also a huge amount of professional resources and support available whether its online, remotely by phone or video, or in a clinic there’s always someone there to help 24/7.
Stay safe everyone
The MadeCo Team