Need some tips for surviving lockdown in a healthy holistic manner?

So it is week three of working from home and it seems like this period really has no end in sight. Well here are some recommendations to keep you going:

Maintain a routine

Strive to wake up at the same time every day and sleep at the same time every night. This will set you up for a productive day ahead and allow your body to maintain its normal digestive system. Late nights binge watching your favourite Netflix show will cause havoc with your sleeping pattern.

Dress the part

Make sure you get dressed properly and avoid staying in your pyjamas. This will help to maintain a professional mindset for the day ahead.

Structure your day 

In between virtual meetings and working at your laptop make sure you take regular breaks even incorporating exercise at lunch time. Tip: set a calendar entry for breaks and lunch to ensure your personal time is respected. Nourish your mind and your body at this time. We all love a to do list and there can be nothing more satisfying than crossing through your accomplished tasks at the end of the working day.

Segregate work from home space 

Most of us will be living in a confined space and unable to have the privilege of an office. Try to reserve an area exclusively just for work and keep it very tidy. Why not buy a bunch of flowers to make it more uplifting as a work space? Tip: tulips and daffodils are in season.

Exercise

Most of us are not very disciplined and may fall into a habit of 'snacking', so in order to offset any calorie surplus exercise is key. Try this at lunch times or schedule this before you turn your laptop on, many fitness studios are offering classes with Zoom as a platform so be sure to check this out. Failing this, step outside for a walk or run maintaining a safe distance in line with the latest government guidance. Exercise is fundamental for our mental health and immune system - a real bonus.

Plan your evenings

We know that work is a primary part of our life, yet take your evenings as a chance to switch off. Tip: try an old school board game such as Monopoly. Or even Dobble a very competitive game, disclaimer very addictive.

Learn a new skill 

Wanted to try a new language, learn how to cook your favourite dish from a specific cuisine? There are many videos online to guide you. Or why not grow some fresh herbs with the arrival of spring; there is no better time.

Schedule a virtual call with your colleagues

Why not have that Monday morning coffee meeting or Friday late afternoon meeting using Skype or Zoom? Remaining in touch with your colleagues can help to ensure you are still very much maintaining interactions, albeit virtual.

Recharge 

Unwind with a bath on a Sunday evening to take a moment to yourself to mentally relax and feel recharged for the week ahead. Enjoy this scarce period where we are encouraged to stay home and relax from the frenzy of commutes, face to face meetings and social interactions. For centuries, ancient cultures have also used music to calm the mind and enhance mental and physical well-being. Tip: try meditation apps if you struggle to meditate alone.

Let us embrace this period. If you find yourself struggling remember, "When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it". (Henry Ford)

Sophie is a qualified yoga teacher and welcomes sharing her practice with others. Please feel free to reach out to her if you have any questions at info@socup.org.uk.