We’ve all seen the news by now and have most likely been impacted directly or indirectly by the unfolding global pandemic. For many of us this means self-isolating and spending more time at home than we are used to. For others it means a reality far worse. For all of us, however we have been affected, it is important to stay positive. For anyone currently self-isolating (as Mr T and I are) I wanted to share a few things that will hopefully lift your spirit while you’re stuck at home…
A Book For The House-Bound
Recently I read the aptly titled House-Bound by Winifred Peck. House-Bound was written during the war. The story is set during wartime and tells the story of middle-class Edinburgh; it’s a satire on genteel living, and is always kept in relation to the ongoing war as middle-class society struggles to adapt and keep up appearances in such trying times. There are coal fires, kitchen ranges and intractable husbands; the main character Rose is not quite sure whether you need soap to wash potatoes. It’s both heart-warming and hilarious, the perfect read for anyone cooped up inside.
Inspiration Not Incarceration
If you’re fortunate enough to be feeling well, try to think of this time as an opportunity. Make a list of the nagging things you’ve been meaning to get finished or those projects you dreamt up and never quite got round to doing. I’ve been busy making lists of DIY jobs that I’ve been meaning to do around the house, like finish painting the stairs and hanging the coat hooks. Use your evenings spent at home being practical, nothing like a project to stay motivated!
Cook Along With Friends
Break up your day by FaceTime calling your friends, you might like to do a cook along and chat whilst you’re both whipping up a delicious meal. These fun little interactions will help to break up your day. If you’re a social creature then you will want to try and do this most days to avoid feeling totally isolated.
Quiet The Chaos
Being separated from friends and family can be a real struggle. For those of you stuck at home, I want to send my love and hope that you can find ways to stay positive. If you’ve been suffering from anxiety I shared previously, five practical ways to reduce anxiety and hope this can help in some small way. I’ve found that limiting exposure to mass media by only watching the official Government statement once per day, does help.
“Be grateful for the home you have, knowing that at this moment, all you have is all you need.”
– Sarah Ban Breathnach
Stay healthy, positive and fabulous.
Much love Christine
