Great Britain has been in lockdown since mid March. Many of us were just starting to get used to our new normal when the government announced we can leave our homes for longer and as often as we wished. Before long we were told we could meet with one member of our family or a friend, then six other people outdoors, as long as we stayed two meters away. Our youngest children and those in their final few weeks of primary education can return to school. For many of us our homes have been our safe haven, a place where we were protected from the virus that the media is constantly telling us is so dangerous. Of course, sadly for some, home has not been such a haven.
Suddenly parks reopen, more people are on the street, traffic increases and garden centres open up. In a few days all shops will start trading again and many of us will be asked to return to work. For some the lockdown restrictions easing are a cause for celebration, signs we are moving back to normality. However, for others the thought of leaving their homes and venturing out into a new, different world is a source of anxiety and stress.
This is perfectly understandable, the last few months have been pretty out of the ordinary. After all, Coronavirus is still here and people are still spreading it. Trying to stay two meters away from others and wearing face coverings can be unsettling. The security of lockdown came with challenges but now we're told we can venture out and get on with our lives and this can also be scary. Our lives are different now. More freedom is bringing more anxiety for many people, with a mix of emotions between relief and fear.
If you are finding the ease in lockdown a struggle and feeling confused about what is and isn’t allowed, you are certainly not alone. So please remember, we are all in this together. Your anxieties are normal. Don’t be afraid to share your feelings. Take care of yourself. Choose healthy food and try to get some exercise. Rest. We know taking care of our physical health improves mood and reduces stress.
Meditate to calm your mind. Meditation doesn’t have to be sat crossed legged on the floor humming. Carrying out daily activities in a mindful way is a form of meditation. Even washing the dishes can be calming if you really feel the water, smell the detergent, experience the bubbles on your hands.
When you do go outside notice the wind on your face, the temperature, smells. Try to smile at everyone you see, it will make you feel better and might improve their day too, you may even get a smile returned.
You are stronger than you think. We were nervous when lockdown was imposed, but we adapted. Now restrictions are easing we will adapt again.
Much love
Jan
Suddenly parks reopen, more people are on the street, traffic increases and garden centres open up. In a few days all shops will start trading again and many of us will be asked to return to work. For some the lockdown restrictions easing are a cause for celebration, signs we are moving back to normality. However, for others the thought of leaving their homes and venturing out into a new, different world is a source of anxiety and stress.
This is perfectly understandable, the last few months have been pretty out of the ordinary. After all, Coronavirus is still here and people are still spreading it. Trying to stay two meters away from others and wearing face coverings can be unsettling. The security of lockdown came with challenges but now we're told we can venture out and get on with our lives and this can also be scary. Our lives are different now. More freedom is bringing more anxiety for many people, with a mix of emotions between relief and fear.
If you are finding the ease in lockdown a struggle and feeling confused about what is and isn’t allowed, you are certainly not alone. So please remember, we are all in this together. Your anxieties are normal. Don’t be afraid to share your feelings. Take care of yourself. Choose healthy food and try to get some exercise. Rest. We know taking care of our physical health improves mood and reduces stress.
Meditate to calm your mind. Meditation doesn’t have to be sat crossed legged on the floor humming. Carrying out daily activities in a mindful way is a form of meditation. Even washing the dishes can be calming if you really feel the water, smell the detergent, experience the bubbles on your hands.
When you do go outside notice the wind on your face, the temperature, smells. Try to smile at everyone you see, it will make you feel better and might improve their day too, you may even get a smile returned.
You are stronger than you think. We were nervous when lockdown was imposed, but we adapted. Now restrictions are easing we will adapt again.
Much love
Jan
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