You don’t need us to tell you that lockdown has disrupted our lives, and the devastating impact of Covid-19 makes it challenging to keep positive. But at a time when we all feel slightly powerless, it’s best to focus on the things you can take ownership of.
As we know this is a tough time for all of us, we have put together some of our top tips to help you keep motivated during lockdown.
#1 - Stick to a routine
Take good care of your immune system and reduce stress through maintaining a consistent sleep and meal schedule. As humans we thrive off routine, it helps us set healthy habits so we get the most out of the day. And we generally feel much happier in ourselves if we’ve achieved something, no matter how small! Start a sleep schedule and get enough quality sleep, eat well and stay hydrated.
#2 – Make time for yourself
It is hugely important to step away from the business of life for an hour and think about only yourself. Reading that book you have been meaning to but haven’t had the time for and making time to keep active – whether it’s a brisk local walk or a home HIIT workout – exercise helps to reduce the body’s stress hormones. Meditating and practising yoga is also a known mood stabiliser, consider downloading an app like Headspace or Calm to try it out. If you have a pet, spending time around them may help to reduce stress, anxiety and depression, ease loneliness, encourage exercise and playfulness, and even improve your cardiovascular health.
#3 – Learn something new
Even in lockdown, there is a whole plethora of new skills out there that you can learn from the comfort of your home and will help to boost your mood. If you have yet to gain your sailing qualification then why not begin your journey with Sunsail and start with the online sailing courses to kick things off!
If you’re new to sailing, check out our recent blog on why you should get into sailing now: a beginner’s guide. It features lots of handy tips, many of which you can do at home!
#4 - Get outdoors
Fresh air and sunshine are a huge mood booster and help to maintain your health, both physically and mentally. Vitamin D comes from the sun and is essential to the functioning of the immune system. Spending time outdoors also helps alleviate stress. And when you’re inside, make sure to open doors and windows and make the most of the fresh air and sun shining through your window.
#5 - Stay connected to loved ones
We are social beings and we need to be around others. In this time of lockdown, it is more important than ever to stay connected to each other. With today’s technology it’s a lot easier to stay connected even when you’re apart, from making a simple phone call to using one the many apps available to video call each other. Make time to talk to friends and family you haven’t spoken to in a while. Some people may be on their own and may need your support. Others might just be wanting to hear a friendly voice and have a good catch up!
#6 - Appreciate the world from a distance
We may not be able to travel overseas just yet, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still enjoy it from afar. Visiting the world’s natural wonders online and without the crowds can be a true delight. In one day you could watch Magellanic penguins waddle around in California with Aquarium of the Pacific, take a thrilling virtual tour of Yosemite, get the perfect, tourist-free insight into Pompei, or even see the illusive Northern Lights.
#7 - Focus on the future
We recently spoke to Sunsail ambassador, Dee Caffari, for her advice for anyone struggling in isolation. Dee says, “Focus only on what you can control and don’t waste energy worrying about things that are outside your control. Every day we are bombarded with information via the media and whilst we do need to take onboard the news that is being distributed; it is important to observe how it is affecting our wellbeing. If you do find that reading or listening to the news is increasing your anxiety or stress levels, then limit your exposure to it. It is likely that many of us will be seriously impacted financially through job loses or lack of work, but remember that you are not alone, millions of us will be in the same position. Make a manageable plan and seek help if you are feeling overwhelmed.”
If you would like to read more advice from her, you can check out Dee's Isolation Tips.
It’s also really important to keep on dreaming, so imagine all the places you will go when travel restrictions are lifted and start making a list!
The good news is that if you’re able to master the art of self-motivation now, it’s a skill you can use for the rest of your life.
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