Hello, and welcome to Lockdown v3.0… but seriously, how are you doing? However we imagined 2021 would begin, it probably wasn’t with further restrictions limiting our movements in the world. But as we’re rapidly discovering, life during a global pandemic is never going to be predictable, is it? If you’re anything like us, this lockdown is feeling so very different from the first one. There are no sunny, warm days this time around. There are no light mornings and dusky evenings. But there is hope- and like last time, we are all in this together again. The problem with a winter lockdown is that practising self-care is that little bit harder. We can’t embrace the outdoors like we could first time around. We aren’t blessed with cherry weather and we’re probably all feeling more than a little burn out- whether we’re furloughed, working from home with all its distractions, homeschooling, or still out at work trying to carry on as best we can. Whatever your situation, one thing is clear: you need to take care of yourself. This post is dedicated to you. We’re sharing three little tips for self-care at home, and we want you to promise you will try them all.
Establish a routine
It sounds so simple, but being at home can often be one of the biggest challenges when it comes to establishing a routine. And we might think ‘why even bother?’ if we can work in our pyjamas. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with a pyjama day, or with a ‘wallowing in our own misery’ day- those days cannot last forever if we want to get serious about self-care. So set your alarm, get a routine going and stick to it like glue.
Why? Because it’s one of the best ways to protect your mental health. If you have a good routine, you’re more likely to:
- Get everything done that you need to get done (its not easy being productive and completing all of your work tasks from home!) – and being on top of your workload will do wonders for your peace of mind.
- Be able to create a morning ritual- one of the best ways to prepare yourself for the day ahead. Whether you start with a journalling session, some deep breathing/ meditation/ yoga, or a brisk walk or run- this time alone is your chance to set your intentions for the day.
- Sleep better. By waking at the same time each day, and retiring for sleep at the same time too, your body falls into a natural circadian rhythm that will aid better sleep. And getting good quality sleep will impact on all areas of your wellbeing- it’s so important! Its tempting to stay up late since you don’t need to be anywhere in the morning, but don’t fall into that trap. Stick to your routine and reap the benefits.
You may need to adapt your routine for winter, but that’s ok. Enjoy the fact that you can snuggle up with a blanket and a good book and relish the darker evenings because you can be inside.
Reduce the ‘doom-scrolling’
Your newsfeed is never-ending, and right now not much of it will bring a smile to your face. Why put yourself through it when you could be using your time more productively? And yes, practising self-care is productive. Instead of obsessively scrolling through social media, you can:
- Take a long, warm bubble bath into the tub to relax and calm the body and mind. Bliss!).
- Snuggle up with a beautiful candle ( our Rose Geranium candle is perfect for easing stress and balancing your mood when you need to) and read a book.
- Go for a walk/ run- the great outdoors is still out there, even though the sun isn’t shining quite as brightly! Getting a regular dose of natural sunlight is essential for your mental wellbeing, and studies have proven it’s health benefits.
- Have an at-home pamper session. What better way to show yourself you care? Try our English Lavender Organic Pamper Pack to relax and unwind.
- Meditate.
- Practise mindfulness.
Notice that pretty much of all the above are pretty awesome acts of self-care by themselves.
Connect with friends and family
One of the hardest things about being in lockdown is the lack of human interaction we’re now facing each and every day. Seeing real people, holding conversations, touching and being touched- it’s all vital to our wellbeing and mental health and facing up to the lack of these simple interactions is hard. But there are ways that you can stay connected during lockdown- you just need to make an effort to do it. FaceTime, phone calls, zoom meetings, even writing letters- all great swaps until we’re able to do see our loved ones again.
It’s so important to stay in touch with others- don’t let your important relationships falter when you need them most. Reach out if you’re struggling, talk it through and recognise when you need to vent. By understanding your own emotional needs, and what you need to be happy, you’re practising one of the best acts of self-care there is. Being aware and able to act when you need to is a great strength- pass it on. Being in tune with your own needs puts you in such a great position to be able to help others too.
Remember you’re not alone. Pick up the phone, press send on that message and reach out when you need to.
