I think it’s safe to say this wasn’t the new year we had anticipated and lockdown 3.0 doesn’t appear to have the same element of romance or spirit of adventure of our previous lockdowns. It’s cold and it’s dark and planning feels like a thing of the past, but, we are where we are so here’s a few irreverent tips to get you through lockdown number three!
- Create your own space – this is so hard right now especially for parent juggling work, home schooling and everything in between. It’s so important to try to find a bit of space just for you. I’ve seconded the granddaughter’s bedroom as an office, which worked fine until we did a zoom call for her school-work and she piped up accusingly “Is that my bedroom, nanna?” Busted! It’s got lots of her stuff in it, and it can be a bit odd having a zoom meeting surrounded by the pink mermaid wallpaper, but the new, and very reasonably priced John Lewis angle poise lamp, makes it feel like mine.
- Get a routine – This is so hard isn’t it when the daily commute is all of a five second walk across the landing but I’ve made a real effort under lockdown three to get up on time (ish), have a shower (most days…) and wear a relaxed casual outfit. No-one need know about the fluffy rabbit-ear slippers! I also try to take a proper lunch break and factor in a half-hour walk. It’s hard to get out sometimes but it always makes me feel better and works like a mini reboot every time. Finally, try and keep a schedule. When we are being pulled in all sorts of directions, and WFH, it’s really important to try to structure your day and NOT answer emails at 11pm.
- Resolutions – who needs this kind of pressure! I really haven’t bothered this year, I’m grateful to be home, have my health and be working, I’m not going to let extra poundage get in the way. It’s an unrealistic stick to beat yourself with when there is enough to contend with, so don’t bother. Wait until the sun is out again and then pound C25K for all its worth! That said, do try to see some daylight every day, you will feel better, honest!
- Don’t try to be a brave soldier and do it on your own! Parents please give yourself a medal I think you are amazing, I don’t how you are coping with this and please, please, please don’t try to do it all on your own. The good news is Joe Wicks is back, BBC and CBeebies are scheduling some great educational programmes and Dr Chris and Dr Xand do a live broadcast everyday @Xadvt. Our YAG members have got some fabulous content on the website that you can get the kids involved in too on.
- Be kind to yourself – this is not normal, we are all in a bit of a shell-shocked state right now and it is a tremendous amount to take in. there are some fantastic mindfulness sessions you can tune into which are all around being in the now, understanding your emotions and sometimes you just have to give in, have a cry and then crack on again.