Many of us are still spending more time at home, while we continue work from home, try to avoid crowded places, or are isolating or shielding from contact with others.
While it can feel safe being at home, there are some things that are important to remember, so that we can all keep well and healthy while we have this change to what was our usual routine.
If you don’t feel comfortable going back to the gym just yet, or are not able to be as active as you were, check out these exercise videos from the NHS Fitness Studio. If you prefer something more gentle just to keep you mobile, there are some good chair based exercises recommended by British Heart Foundation. These ones are ideal for elderly people who may not be moving around very much at the moment (and perhaps also for those working from a chair at the kitchen table!).
Stay connected to other people, even if you can’t see them at the moment, or as often as you’d like. Since lockdown there has been an increase in telephone and video calling, but not everyone finds it easy or has the technology. Older people especially, may be struggling with with lack of contact with other people. For many, a chat with neighbours or people at the shops made a difference to their day before lockdown. If you can, try to help older neighbours or family members be able to stay in touch with others.
Something many people have struggled with while spending more time at home, is trying not to eat more than they usually would. Boredom can lead to wandering into the kitchen more frequently, the same can be said for working from home, along with not stopping for a proper lunch break. Lack of routine means you might not do the food shop in the way you used to, or have meals structured into your day as before. All these things lead to a negative change in our eating habits.
Try to stick to regular mealtimes where possible. Having some routine or structure to your day can help with the snacking through boredom. if you’re working from home, maybe making a ‘packed lunch’ at the start of the day would be useful, so you have something ready to eat when you can take a break. Plan out your evening meals on a regular basis, so you know what you need to shop for and have available, and ensuring you get a good healthy, balanced meal instead of relying on snacks or unhealthy takeaways for convenience.
Finally, positive thinking can make a real difference to how we feel while we spend more time at home. Feeling Good is an excellent app for people who feel worried or stressed, and those who want to improve their mental wellbeing, concentration and confidence. Keeping a gratitude journal is a great way to keep focussing on the positive, even when you cannot change your circumstances, such as the situation we are currently in. You could also read uplifting or inspiring books, or listen to wellbeing podcasts to pass the time.