COSRT’s Professional Standards Manager Jo Coker, shares her thoughts and tips on coping in this second lockdown.
Well here we go again ……. back to lockdown and all that this entails. First time round it was a novelty despite the fears of COVID and social curtailment. We were able to work from home, something that was a huge positive for many of us. We could kick off the heals and suits of the office, slip into joggers and take another half hour in bed in the morning as we did not have the commute. We slipped into a rhythm of work meetings on zoom with our homes as background noise to our day. We managed home schooling, and social and family life on zoom and house party…. we coped and came out the other side feeling we had triumphed, and that our self-sacrifice had paid off. That was in spring when the weather was unseasonably kind to us, and we could get out and about and lockdown was fresh, different.
Now lockdown is here again and we all feel jaded, winter is upon us, COVID does not seem to be getting better in fact it is getting worse, and all our social outlets have been shut down again. We long for the normality of Christmas office parties, human and family contact which seems increasingly unlikely to happen.
So how can we get through this time positively.
Here are some quick tips to help maintain physical, mental and relationship health:
- It is no surprise that the retail industry is reporting their biggest selling items of clothing are pyjamas and joggers, after all we have no where to go so let’s all be comfortable! However, this is not a great idea for many reasons. Firstly, it is easy to put on weight and not notice as they are forgiving garments and, being at home, we tend to snack more. So, make sure that at least on some days you dress properly. Secondly, looking good is good for your morale so dress it up a little! it is not only good for you, but if you are in a relationship it shows an effort for your partner. After all no-one wants to see their partner in PJ’s all day.
- If you are in a relationship have date nights and dress as if going out, make an effort to cook and enjoy a drink. It makes the evening more special and helps foster positivity.
- Make your environment cosy. The Danes call this “Hygge” don’t let your environment go to pot, instead cosy it up with throws, candles and homely touches.
- Exercise, it is easy when cold not to want to go out but make yourself. It is great for your mental health as well as your physicality. Long walks are invigorating, and you will feel better physically and mentally. Even try a winter picnic with your partner, family or bubble.
- Be aware of your diet, try not to snack and eat ready meals. Instead go for nutritious fresh food to feel your soul and body, enjoy cooking.
- Get a hobby, normally we are all too busy, but Christmas is coming and whether we are going to be able to be together or not we need to prepare. So, cook ahead, make presents, or try something new and involve the kids. You tube is full of instructional videos to help.
- Try family and friends’ games and quiz nights on Zoom.
- Try to turn off the news feed, just look once a day. Leave your phone out of the bedroom. No one will feel sexy looking at a news feed.
- Watch programmes with happy uplifting content.
- Use music to lift your soul, dance around the kitchen!
- If you need psychological help, access it on-line. Most therapist will be working in this format so this is an ideal time to work on any issues you may have.
- Similarly, if your relationship needs support and help then this is a great time to act as you have more time and do not need to leave home to get help.
- If you are in a coercive or violent relationship, please reach out for help. You can leave your home in this situation.
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/getting-help-for-domestic-violence/
The days ahead will be tough but by preparing and being creative we can get through the next weeks and come out the other side in good physical and mental shape.
Keep well!