Once again the UK finds itself entering lockdown for the second time, which will begin on Thursday, 5th of November, and expected to end on the 2nd of December. Most people are dreading this draconian move by the government as they wonder how they will survive this second lockdown.
We may start to feel stress and anxiety because we cannot meet with our loved ones and are trapped at home. But there are things that we can do to keep from going looney during the lockdown.
Develop a Routine
You may find it very difficult to get out of bed during lockdown because you know that you don’t have any place to go. Staying in your pajamas all day may make you feel too comfortable that you don’t even feel like working.
If it helps, make a schedule of what you are going to do each day so that you keep busy. And don’t forget to include short breaks in your schedule. For example, you could start each day by doing a bit of exercise for 10 minutes, next have a healthy breakfast, and then settle down to do some work. Take a 15-minute break to stretch your legs or have a snack. Develop a routine that suits you.
Increase Your Skills
Instead of spending the whole day on the couch in your pajamas watching reruns on TV, why not try increasing your skills. You could learn new software or learn a new language. Maybe there is a course you could take that would help you to be more efficient and productive at work. Some courses may be free or on a special discount.
Get Creative
Try coloring in an adult coloring book to ease your stress and to occupy your time. Adult coloring books can have a positive effect on your mental health in that it reduces depression and anxiety. It is also a great way to show off your creative side. If coloring books are not your thing, you can also try painting or pottery. Just use your imagination and start getting creative.
Take on DIY Projects
Do you have a cupboard that needs to be repaired or have you been putting off repainting your bedroom? This would be the perfect time during lockdown to finally get to work on those DIY projects that you have been promising yourself and your family that you would get to as soon as you had some free time. Now that the whole country is going back into lockdown for at least a month, you will have plenty of time to complete all the jobs you had been putting off.
Do a Bit of Exercise
Unfortunately, because we are stuck in the house we may start putting on a few extra pounds during the lockdown. It doesn’t help our waistline if we are shoving chocolates, cakes, sweets, and crisps down our throats every single day. So now is the time to get into the habit of doing a bit of exercise to keep your weight down. Check out some YouTube videos to help you get in shape.
Start a New Hobby
This second lockdown is the perfect opportunity to start a new hobby. There are plenty of things you can do while you’re stuck in the house. You could learn how to knit or sew. You could also teach yourself how to play chess. Or you could learn some new card games.
These are just some of the ways that you can stay sane during the lockdown. Also, don’t forget to maintain social distancing, wash your hands, and stay home to save lives. We will not stay in lockdown forever. Have patience and we will get through this together.