Ways to stay positive during ‘social distancing’ 😊

Hiya,

The world is such a crazy place at the moment and my heart goes out to all the people fighting the horrible coronavirus. My heart especially goes out to all the wonderful doctors/nurses/caregivers looking after the ill, and to all the scientists working hard at finding a vaccination. From the people working in shops to ensure people can still get the essentials, the the Police and Fire Departments that still have to look after our country as usual, people really are heroes.

In our street a WhatsApp group has been set up to make sure the vulnerable or those unable to get out are helped and for those that still need to go to work, that they’re updated. In the midst of a lot of worry, there is a lot of love being shown.

Whilst it is absolutely essential to self isolate for the sake of others and prevent further strain on the NHS, for those that are now having to self isolate as many of us are, it can be a boring time. With the stress of going on in the world outside, it can be easy for this anxiety to fester more than it usually would and so I thought I’d make a list of things to do at home. I also recommend changing your mindset of not having to be stuck in but more like “I’m going to have a relaxed day today, or I’m going to get these things done” that way you have a routine and feel more optimistic and less trapped.

1) Go on a walk
2) Get your yoga mat out and do some gentle stretches with a guided video on YouTube
3) if you happen to have any exercise equipment at home that you never use, get it out, dust it off and use it - use this free time to do something positive 😊
4) Start that book you’ve been meaning to start - take your mind off what is going on around you
5) Do some spring cleaning whilst listening to your favourite music
6) Make a list of all the things you want to do when everything is back to normal again
7) If you find you’re worrying more start a journal to just get those thoughts on to paper and leave them there.
8) Collect ideas for plans/house decoration/anything you want to start doing in the future in a scrap book
9) Send your friends a message checking they’re ok 😊
10) Ring/FaceTime relatives and have a chat
11) Watch YouTube videos on topics you enjoy (baking, exercise, gardening)
12) Watch a new TV series or film
13) If you’re finding the situation affecting your mental health, try having a break from the panic of social media and just watch the main news updates for practical information
14) Play a board game with your family members
15) If you have a pet stroke and play with them (maybe teach your dog a new trick)
16) Ring elderly or more vulnerable neighbours to check they’re ok
17) Watch the birds and count them in your garden
18) Water your plants and enjoy watching them grow
19) Start a blog or diary
20) Draw or paint
21) Listen to an audio book or podcast


These are just some ideas but if you have any more that are helping you through this time let me know!

Sending love and wishing everyone the best health,

Molly x

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