These are strange times for the modern world, most European cities in lockdown and people being asked to stay inside their homes for the majority of the day. Although this is seen as essential to deal with Covid-19, it can have a negative effect on our mental health. We have evolved as a tribal species, which means we thrive in a community, with our friends and family around us.
So, in these times when we must stay away from our friends and family to save lives, what can we do to continue thriving?
The answer is not in breaking the guidelines and meeting people behind closed doors; it's about finding new ways to feel less isolated, new ways to keep mentally healthy.
Here are a few suggestions:
Ensure you engage with others - contact someone you haven't spoken to in a while and have a catch up.
Use technology to talk face to face - WhatsApp, FaceTime, Facebook portal, Skype, Zoom...to name but a few.
Join an on-line, or live, fitness class in your living room.
Take a walk, if possible do it in the morning to get sunlight on your skin. If you can walk in nature, watch and listen to the birds, feel the breeze, notice the different sights, the flowers and trees - say "hello" to anyone you see (but don't forget your social distancing).
Eat healthily, which means as much fresh fruit and vegetables as possible.
Prioritise your sleep.
Lastly - find a routine and try to stick to it.
If you find this useful, look out for our next blog focusing on the subject of routine.
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