If you are reading this, I assume that you are also in lockdown. As it stands, most places in the world right now are in an official lockdown due to the spread of COVID-19 or Coronavirus. No doubt, it has been one of the scariest things to happen to a lot of people; and especially in terms of a generation. Everyone’s daily routines have changed dramatically. Since I live in the UK, the current rules are primarily to stay at home, however, if you do need to go out stay 2 metres apart from other people and make sure these trips are either for your one form of exercise OR for food shopping or medicines. It’s a strange routine to adapt to, especially as someone who loves the outdoors. And even if you don’t like the outdoors, it is difficult having your freedom taken away from you.
It is fair to say that, like most people, the “lockdown” situation has affected me. You can’t just pop to the shops when you need to or go on a run as and when you like; you are forced to make the decision when how you are going to use the freedom you do have. It has made me realise how much I took my freedom for granted.
One of the hardest things to accept was that I would not be having my last term at uni. Term 3 is usually “exam season” at uni aka where everyone is in their rooms revising or going out to deny they have exams. Even though term 3 is probably the quietest (well the first six weeks at least), it is the idea that I didn’t get a choice whether I wanted to revise mostly at home or uni. Equally, the thought that I’m not going to be seeing my friends until (probably unless the situation in terms of travelling changes) September is a hard thing to accept. But I know, with how dangerous Coronavirus is, it is understandable why we are not allowed to return to campus for the time being.
Amid Instagram live home workout videos, language learning apps and Tik Tok routines, I am trying to navigate how I feel about the lockdown situation. At first, it was a novelty: no need to leave the house unnecessarily so I could concentrate on essays, more time to be with my Mum, sister and cats etc. but it did not take long for the novelty to wear off. Surely I should have been more motivated to concentrate on my essays? I found myself feeling utterly overwhelmed and lost; aimlessly staring at my computer screen. Why wasn’t I getting work done? For someone who is relatively productive, it felt strange to be completely deflated and unable to get on with anything.
It took a few days, but I spoke out and realised I wasn’t alone. Everyone around me was struggling with productivity too. Knowing I wasn’t the only one not getting sh$t done was reassuring. Whatever stage in life you are at, do not beat yourself up if you aren’t achieving everything you had planned to do right now. There is TIME. We do not know how long this lockdown is likely to last, therefore, take it as an opportunity to recharge. How often are you ever going to have a designated period where everything is shut to keep everyone alive? It’s time to listen to what your body needs.
I am going to share a few tips of what I have found helped me feel less overwhelmed with life:
1. Find a Routine
Stick to a routine and sleep pattern. It helps make the days feel less long and same-y.
2. Talk to a friend
If you are living in a family or with another person, it is inevitable you will argue at some point. Sometimes just picking up the phone and speaking to someone else can help put things into perspective. It also means you can keep in touch with your loved ones and find out how they are coping. You do not need to be calling anyone and everyone, but knowing that those who are close to you care and are willing to give up time for you is special. Don’t take it for granted because this virus has proved that life is precious.
3. Boundaries
We all need space at times. Whether that’s having a safe room which you can retreat to or an activity which allows people to know that you need to be on your own. It is ok to have some time on your own; don’t be ashamed of it.
4. Make Lists
I find listing out all the things I want to achieve helps set my mind for the day. Also, writing daily intentions are a great way of setting your mood and ensuring you make the right choices.
5. USE YOUR ONE FORM OF EXERCISE
It would be so easy to stay indoors for days on end. You are being told to ‘Stay At Home’ so what’s the point of going outside. But trust me when I say it, spending 5, 10, 30 minutes outside once a day is the best thing you can do for yourself.
As a regular gym bunny, it was hard to accept that I wouldn’t be able to go to the gym or do my favourite Soul Cycle classes in London for quite some time. Instead, I am using this time to focus on what I can do: home workouts and running. I am challenging myself to run a half marathon around May simply around my local area. No one has forced me to, it’s just a way of me making me feel like I am training for something. I’m not going to lie, I am week 3 into training and it is getting tough but I am going to try and power through! I would love to know how everyone’s training has changed.
Feel free to drop me a direct message on Instagram
I know this is a hard time, but I promise we are going to get through. I hope you are keeping safe and am sending so much love your way. We have got this.
Lots of love,
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Is xx
Isabella Clark ©