There is no denying that these are strange times. No casual lunches at Nandos or grabbing a coffee at our favourite café. The days feel longer and each one seems to blend into the next. As the novelty of spending time at home begins to wear off, it is easy to feel overwhelmed.
The good news is that although sometimes it feels like it, we aren’t alone. Most of us are feeling the same and all of us are dealing with the lockdown in our own ways.
Here are five practical tips that you can use that will help when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
1. Stay connected
To be honest, I am not always a ‘phone call’ type of girl, but now is the time to stay connected with our friends and family. Make the effort to ring a friend or set up a video call on a regular basis. If you don’t know what to talk about try sharing your thoughts on a new Netflix series or your favourite recipe.
2. Stay active
Exercising for at least 30 minutes a day is great for your body and your mind. It might feel easy to become a couch potato during this lockdown, but that definitely won’t help you mentally! Exercise gives you a lot more energy and releases endorphins which make you happy. If you can get outside for some fresh air each day then that’s even better.
3. Spend time with God
Since we have more free time, why not dedicate some of it to spending time with God. He loves it when we take the time to speak to Him, even if it’s only a short time every day. Sharing our worries, expressing gratitude and asking for help are all ways we can connect with Him. God loves to hear our prayers.
“Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:12-13
Don’t forget to pay attention to what God is saying to you as well. You could put on some worship music and read your bible and then reflect on what He might be saying. Spending time seeking God is a great way to calm your worries.
4. Start a new hobby
You might have always wanted to learn to play an instrument, get into baking or start your own blog and now is the best time to do it! Keeping yourself busy will also stop you from overthinking and being negative. Getting your siblings or friends involved is a great way to make sure you stick with it.
5. Set up a new routine
Although your usual routine might have been put on hold there is no reason why you can’t start a new one. Making sure you still do all the normal things like changing your clothes, making your bed, having breakfast and tidying your room is a great start. You could even write yourself a to-do list each day to make sure you stay productive and keep track of your progress.
