Lockdown Blues...

Are you feeling it too? It's only been a few weeks of lockdown and already I can't tell each day apart. It has got me feeling meh, unmotivated and bored with the mundane activities I do within the 4 walls. There is so much that I am grateful for- believe me- but equally, there are things I miss. Our normal is changing but I'm still to grasp what it is...

I enjoy being in different environments, doing things and being surrounded by people -(the Introvert I am). Lockdown has put a halt in our general lifestyle and is so quickly requiring us to get used to a new one. The past week there's been blurred lines of what I should do, want to do and have to do. I haven't been actively working towards habits and goals I set out to do in the new year which has left me feeling unproductive. I've got some tips and advice I'd like to share with you...

How to feel better in Lockdown.

Start creating.

I crave being hands-on and working on something just for the fun of it. When I get involved in a fun project, I find that I'm much happier and more inspired. I encourage you to find a project that you can develop a skill and craft in to stimulate you mentally and emotionally. It could be cooking, writing a song, designing etc. Do what will force you to think outside the box or out your comfort zone this lockdown. Comment down below if you want me to create meal idea blogs?

Create a routine structure for yourself.

I haven't developed any form of routine and I definitely feel it. I wake up and go to bed inconsistently, I snack too frequently, do my work only for a little while and it's thrown me off balance. Working from home has granted me more flexibility than I usually get but it doesn't excuse me from having a structure to my days. This is almost advice to myself that I think that you will benefit from. Try to identify when you feel most energetic (morning? Afternoon, Night?) and dedicate that time to do things that you have to do (e.g. school or work). This will help your productivity. Then identify when you typically slow down and require rest. Allow yourself to take that time to wind down so that you don't burnout in the long-run. Finally, schedule little habits, to-dos and fun things where you can (e.g. weekends) to create a balanced routine. Don't forget to prepare for your days ahead to keep organised and get ready for each day (dress up, put makeup, haircut). Finding a solid routine in lockdown takes times so just keep trying to you find what is right for you.

Get Active.

It may seem unappealing and in fact very difficult to get any form of activity within your home but it is possible. Many of us miss our freedom to go where we want when we want to but that hasn't been taken away from us completely. We can decide to get active by going on daily walks, doing home workouts, stretching or even dancing often. I've given myself many excuses not to do those things but I've only hindered my wellbeing. It all goes a long way and you always feel good afterwards. Your motivation will fluctuate but having a solid reason will keep you going.

Reach out to friends and family (virtually).

Socialising is important. Whether it be a simple but heartfelt text, a shared video, hour face-time calls make an effort to show the ones you love that you care. It feels good knowing that you can maintain relationships based on regular communication. If you are like me, you might feel scared, nervous or doubtful to reach out or even question who to reach out too. Know that there are people out there that would love to hear from you. Isolation can quickly creep up on any of us but you are not alone. There are plenty of online communities that you can get involved in to keep you sane during the lockdown.

Practice self-care.

Life can be a bit crazy, unexpected and a bit much at times but through it all, you should make sure you are there for yourself. Dedicate time to take care of your own needs. It's a reward that you always deserve. You'll thank me later when you do whatever makes you feel good in your own skin. Show love to your self and others and lockdown will be more manageable.

Log /record your days.

Although these times feel unprecedented and unruly we are living in it. Every day that goes by cannot repeat itself. Wouldn't it be great to look back on this time in future? Try to keep a log be it a journal, watch/make videos, voice recording etc- to reflect on how you grew, what you did and everything else in between. Capture your mood, environment, your activities so that you create a clear picture. You'll feel much better being able to express yourself during these difficult times.

Some days will be good as gold and others daft as ever but each is valuable. If you've been feeling off, don't worry because you'll soon find your joy. Comment below which tip resonates with you the most. I will be taking these tips and using them to help me feel better.

Until Next Time...Ludel.