Keeping Sane In (and Out) of Lockdown!

Hi everyone. Onto blog entry number 2 - getting the ball rolling now!

I've been brainstorming different subjects to write about for my second post and the big topic that won't seem to leave my little brain alone is Coronavirus. I'm sure this is the case for a lot of people right now as it's a weird time and our minds are on overdrive, so I thought it might be a good idea to share my top 5 tips to keep yourself sane (and maybe enjoy quarantine?). You might even be able to take some of these tips into life post-lockdown - either way if what I write helps just one person I'll be happy!

Let's get stuck in.

Tip #1: Routine, Routine, Routine

I don't know about you guys, but without my routine I am a MESS. Okay, I'm at uni so I'm not at work 9-5 but I did have a pretty stable routine pre-COVID so having one during lockdown was important in keeping some normality in my life. Now, this does not mean waking up at 6am!!! Unless you're a natural early bird let yourself sleep in a bit - what's the harm? But I'd avoid lying in your bed all day, all that will do is make you feel groggy! Instead, set a time that you will wake up at everyday and stick to it from Monday to Friday. For me lockdown wake up is at 10am but its really all about what suits you! Same goes for bedtime - don't stay up til 4am watching random videos just because you can, it messes up your body clock and does not feel good. Though if your routine is late nights and lie ins, that's cool too!

If you're struggling to sleep why not try sleep meditations? You can literally find guided meditations on Youtube, Spotify and Apple Music for free and they send you straight to sleep - I don't think I've ever made it to the end of one! While meditation isn't really my thing, it really is great for insomnia. Just get yourself comfy in bed, have an open mind and give it a listen. Click here for a link to one I've used lots!

Have your daily activities and make sure you do them. If you're having an off day, that's okay just try again later but don't give up! Remember settling into a new routine takes some adjusting so don't be too hard on yourself .

Tip #2: Give Everyday A Purpose

So I know this one sounds a bit cheesy but I don't know how else to put it. To avoid feeling like you're falling into a slump try to give each and everyday a purpose. It doesn't have to be super time consuming and it doesn't have to involve a page long to-do list (though I do love lists!) Try something creative like learning how to draw or paint - youtube tutorials are great for this! Or maybe download Duolingo and learn a new language, doing a 'lesson' or two everyday to keep up your streak! It could even be something as simple as some work around the house before sitting down to a cup of tea and a snack! I have uni work to do over summer so I make sure I focus on my dissertation for a few hours each day, using plenty of snacks to keep me motivated!

I'm lucky enough to be isolating at home with my mum and youngest sister, and something that we have found helps us is having something to look forward to watching together in the evenings. It gives us a sense of excitement and provides a topic for conversation (which can run dry when you're confined to your house!!). I loved our Marvel Movie Marathon, which was an emotional rollercoaster (and reviews will be getting blogged in the near future), but had us hooked from the get go and got us through the first 3 weeks of lockdown. Here's the right order to watch all of the movies in with a checklist I made - feel free to use it!

Tip #3: You Gotta Move!

Now by this I don't mean training yourself into becoming an Olympic athlete, not by any means! It's no secret that exercise improves energy levels and moods, endorphins make you happy (just ask Elle Woods)! Go for a walk or run, see some nice scenery and get some fresh air. Explore your surroundings (at a social distance of course). Or try something completely new like yoga or pilates (see my recent blog on yoga here). Tap into your competitive side by setting fitness challenges among your friends, or even just for yourself! Follow your friends on Strava or try a 30 day challenge of any kind - just get your body moving!!

Having challenges and getting yourself moving, even just a bit, will preoccupy your mind and maybe ease the house crazies!! Who knows, you may even discover a whole new talent.

Tip #4: Be Self-Aware

It is important to be aware of how you're feeling and how to best allow these feelings to process. Emotions are up and down at the best of times, so right now they may have the tendency to be wild - I know mines are. If you're feeling grumpy, sad, angry, frustrated that is OKAY! Accept this is how you feel and give yourself some space, or talk your feelings through with family or friends. Take a shower or get some fresh air. Equally, if you feel happy even in such a 'doom and gloom' climate, that's great - don't feel guilty for it! Just be sure to communicate with people in your home so they know when to give you your space and listen when they ask for theirs.

The most valuable thing you can do for yourself is to not let your negative emotions fester. Ride them out, make a cuppa (or cocktail!) and move on. Let it go. Do something you enjoy to take your mind off of what has upset you or take a nap! Just make the effort to support yourself and your positivity will rub off on others. After all, happiness is infectious (I cringed writing that but I love it lol).

Tip #5: Have A Day Off!

Having a routine and activities and exercise is great but, just like pre-lockdown, having a day off is important!! Lay in bed til 1pm, binge-watch a series on Netflix (The Stranger and Safe are both great for a day like this!), bake or have a pamper! Don't worry about the to-do list, work or study - just chill! If you want to keep in line with a routine make this day the same every week - for me it begins on Saturday night with a takeaway and lasts all day Sunday!

Make time to schedule group calls with friends.Try making a virtual pub quiz, or download the app 'Psyche' and give that a bash - it's hilarious! Whatever you do, relax and recharge.

Hamish & I love a lazy morning!

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These five tips are what work for me - they might not work for everybody! But why not give them a try and find out?! Let me know how you get on, share your own tips in the comments and subscribe through the box below to be notified of my new entries!

Stay safe everyone.

Lana