Currently the world feels a bit like a shaken snow globe; we are surrounded by chaos and it's so easy to get swept up in all the madness. But slowly, the snow will start to settle and calm will be restored.
Its very easy for our minds to run ahead and try to predict the foreseeable future, but right now, the best thing for our minds is to come to peace with the uncertain nature of the future.
Although this may sound impossible, there are steps we can take to distance ourselves from all the snow surrounding us, for example deactivating news notifications on our phones (if there is something important, someone will tell you), reducing your social media usage, or taking a timeout from group discussions about the mayhem.
One thing that is worrying a lot of people at the moment is the prospect of a dreaded ‘lockdown’. But how about we use this as a chance to fall back in love with ourselves.
How often have you thought ‘I’ll do that tomorrow’ or ‘I don't have time’. Now is your chance to step up your self care and below are a few of our favourite ideas:
1. Get lost in a good book
Reading for some of us may be part of our daily routine. Others may be saving books for time away on holiday. Either way, now is your chance to delve into a world that looks better than ours right now. Check out the Evening Standard to see their top rated 2020 arrivals for some inspiration!
2. Bath time
Dig out the bubble bath or those bath bombs you got for Christmas. Find a candle. Get a cup of tea and relax in a bubble bath...
3. Paint your world in colour
Whether you have a natural artistic flair or not, colouring and painting can be soothing for our minds and in turn our bodies. So stock up on supplies, re-discover paint by numbers or invest in an adult colouring book. Here are a few links to check out:
4. Face masks and nails
Whoever you are, whatever gender you identify with, face masks can be great fun! If you are remaining in the four walls of your home, who cares if you have your nails painted to perfection or not. Just have some fun with it!
5. Reconnect with nature
When safe to do so, we are all encouraged to get some fresh air whether that be going for a run or a stroll around the block. For those lucky enough to live near national trust premises, they are unlocking the doors and admission (to open spaces) for free for the time being.
6. Home workout
Get your heart beating in your living room! There are so many fantastic apps and videos available to us which guide us through a workout. Try out the links below to find what best suits you!
7. Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us. When we practice mindfulness, we’re practicing the art of creating space for ourselves, space to think, space to breathe, space between ourselves and our reactions.
Benefits of mindfulness:
People often feel calmer and more relaxed.
Higher levels of energy.
Increased self-acceptance.
Less danger of experiencing stress.
More self-compassion and compassion for others around us
There are lots of great resources for Mindfulness Practice and here are a few links to find out more:
www.headspace.com/mindfulness (Headspace have currently unlocked several meditations to practise during self isolation)
8. Find a new favourite podcast
With a lot of the world having free time on their hands, we can expect to see podcasts coming up. And there's something for everyone and for every mood! Check out your podcast app, spotify or just have a google to find one for you.
Oh, what's that I hear? You're looking for a podcast on mental health? What a coincidence, we have one of those!
9. Take time out to chat to loved ones
Maybe there's a friend you haven't spoken to in a while, or you may want to spend some extra time chatting to your nearest and dearest, now is your chance.
FaceTime, phone call, text, Whatsapp or even writing letters or cards (throwback). There's even a great app called House Party where you can chat 'face to face' whilst playing games!
10. Keep a diary
Lots of people underestimate the power of written words and how cathartic it can be to spill our thoughts onto a page. Even if you keep this totally private, it could be something to help keep sane in our current snow globe world.
11. Netflix and chill (literally chill)
Get that subscription back or log on and update your watch list. Whilst watching series continuously may not be good for our brains, there’s no harm in delving into a new series or documentary.
Here are a few good programmes to watch on tv, netflix and other subscription services:
Its also important to call for help if we need it, the Samaritans and other help lines are still active and waiting to listen if you need it:
Thank you for reading, we hope you've found it helpful!
Let us know if you have any tips of your own that we missed out!
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