Ironically, we live most of our lives wishing for a break. We kill for some time off work to recharge our batteries and relax. Then, when we actually get a chance to do that, it takes a couple of days for the novelty to wear off!
Most people have responded to this pandemic in the same way. You’re worried about what’s going on outside, but you’ve enjoyed having some time away from work to spend with your family. Then, after a few days or weeks, your patience starts to wear thin. You’re bored of being stuck at home, you’re sick to death of feeling so lazy and useless, and you feel like you’re going insane.
If you’re nodding your head thinking this is exactly how you’ve felt, then don’t worry! I think this is a normal reaction to an abnormal situation. Besides, there’s not a lot you can do to change the situation you’re in. Unless you can magically conjure up a vaccine, then you have to deal with the fact that we’re all in this together and we have to comply with the rules.
However, that doesn’t mean you have to endure insanity at home! You can try a few of the ideas laid out in this post to try and stay sane and calm during a lockdown.
Dedicate an hour a day to pure relaxation
It sounds pretty crazy to suggest that it’s hard to relax at home. Still, this is true for so many of you. If you have kids or a big family, then it is challenging to get a moment to yourself. There are surprisingly many things to do, none of which are particularly relaxing.
So, set aside an hour a day for pure relaxation. Nobody can get you to do anything, you just relax. My idea is to set an hour in the morning and an hour in the evening. The evening one can be done by setting a nice warm bath to soak in. Get a relaxing bubble bath, some scented oils, and just lie there and soak.
Your morning half an hour can be a bit different. Start with maybe some light yoga or stretching that relaxes your body and gets you ready for the day. Consider taking something like a CBD supplement to aid your relaxation further.
Many people wonder what does CBD feel like, and the truth is that it just releases a lot of tension in your body and helps you calm down. This is a great way to start the day as it puts you in a good mood and takes away any tension or stiffness that built up while you slept.
Create a schedule for yourself
I personally think we all struggle with the concept of not having a routine. Think about it, you’re used to waking up at a set time, having breakfast, getting ready, going to work, etc. Our days are split into segments where we have things to do, and then we move to other tasks.
When you’re at home, there’s absolutely no schedule. The minute’s blur into hours, and the hours into days. This is why it’s so hard to remember what day of the week it is – with no schedule, it all feels like one really long day.
There’s an easy remedy for this; create your own schedule. You can find free online schedule makers that provide great templates to help you build one for yourself. Then, it’s simply a case of coming up with tasks to do and filling up the slots. Now, you have things to do to keep you occupied, so you won’t go insane!
Remember that if you do decide to venture out then there are some vital things that you need to have. You may need to pop back to the office every now and again for meetings or to get some more paperwork. If this is the case then you will need to make sure you have your ID badge and especially a mask.
Masks have become the new must-have accessory to protect from the spread of COVID. If you need to purchase masks or even a lanyard for your ID badge then you can take a look here to find a huge selection of supplies.
Get some daily exercise in
Exercise is so important for your body and mind. It makes you feel happier by releasing endorphins, and you get a sense of accomplishment after. You know that you haven’t wasted the day doing nothing – you’ve achieved something! It puts you in a better frame of mind for the rest of the day.
Plus, depending on what the rules are where you live, you can use exercise as an excuse to go outside. Go for a nice long run and breathe in the fresh air. Keep your distance from any other runners or cyclists, and don’t go to any shops after. You’ll return home feeling free as you’ve been able to see and enjoy the world outside your living room.
We’re definitely in the strangest and most challenging period since the Second World War. There’s nothing you can personally do to change the situation, all you can do is adapt. Don’t let the lockdown turn you crazy; use these tips to keep your sanity.