While many thought that 2020 would go down as one of the most disruptive and monumental in history, 2021 has not trailed far behind. A new year often signifies a fresh start and new beginning, something many are yearning for after what was a difficult year. In Brisbane, we’re halfway through day one of our three day lockdown related to COVID-19. The word ‘lockdown’ can trigger a lot of emotions and worries in us, and rightfully so. Our previous lockdown was a first for the majority of residents, and what a ride it was. If you’re feeling apprehensive about the next few days, you’re not alone! Below are some key areas to focus on to make sure your mental and physical health are in tip top shape to move through the next few days, regardless of what comes next.
Movement – keep that blood flowing:
Move your body every day, multiple times a day if you can! Whether it’s going for a walk, run, lifting, or doing some yoga in your living room, that movement is beneficial in more ways than one. While exercise is great for our physical health and keeping our bodies healthy to combat chronic disease, it also helps us manage our stress. It releases endorphins in our brain, which are our body’s natural mood-boosting chemicals. There are tons of bodyweight workouts online (Zoom gym classes, Youtube, Nike Training Club, WodWell) to help you stay physically and mentally fit over the next few days. Find a way your body genuinely enjoys to move and commit to it!
Mindfulness – notice where you are and what’s happening around you:
A global pandemic has changed the way we live in many ways, and when faced with the possibility of a greater lockdown our minds can tend to venture into the “what if’s” and catastrophising the situation. Although easier said than done, we need to try and remain present as much as possible because we don’t know what the coming days will bring. If you have a meditation practice, that’s great. If you’ve never done any sort of meditation or mindfulness before, a great place to start is by doing your daily activities as normal but paying attention to your senses as you do. If you’re taking a shower, notice the physical sensations of the water on your skin, the smell of your soap, and the sound of the drain. If you’re eating, notice the texture and smell of your food. If that feels weird, take 10 deep breaths, pay attention to how your belly rises and falls, and say aloud three things you’re grateful for. These exercises help keep you present and save your mental energy for the things that matter!
Connection – to yourself and others:
When we can’t go out and socialise or visit our friends and family, it’s easy to feel quite lonely and isolated. This can be exacerbated if you live alone! While these feelings are valid and real, we must acknowledge that we are extremely lucky to be facing this pandemic with access to such great technology. If you are fortunate enough to live with other people, check in on your solo mates during this time – send a text message or give them a call. You can even set up a Zoom happy hour or dinner to stay connected! If you’re finding yourself basking in the alone time, check in with yourself – write in a journal or do a body scan. In situations like this we can find comfort in the fact that we are all experiencing this together. Focusing on what brings us together as opposed to what drives us apart is crucial in this time. If you find yourself extremely distressed, please contact crisis support (Beyond Blue, Life Line).
Remember that you’ve made it through a much longer lockdown period and have been successful, you can make it through this. While there’s no step-by-step guidebook to dealing with a global pandemic, paying attention to the areas above can make it all a bit easier. If you can only do one of the above, focus on that as a win. At the end of the day, we’re all just doing the best we can – and that’s enough!
