101 THINGS TO DO WHILE YOU SELF-ISOLATE
Copyright Summersdale Publishers Ltd, 2020
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CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
We all need a bit of support in the unprecedented situation that the world is facing, especially when information changes daily as the coronavirus gathers pace. Many of us will be in self-isolation for some time, and it's important in the midst of uncertainty that we continue as normally and as hopefully as we can. Living responsibly and with kindness toward others and ourselves has never been more important. This simple guide offers ways to stay positive with a mix of light-hearted and playful tips interspersed with practical advice to help you keep calm and carry on.
SOOTHE
The art of being happy lies in the power of extracting happiness from common things.
HENRY WARD BEECHER
YOU ARE NOT ALONE
When you find yourself caught up in a tangle of negative thoughts, place your hand on your heart. See if you can feel it beating and notice how your chest rises and falls with every breath. Think of all the heartbeats doing the same thing across the world, then move on with a renewed sense of shared experience.
SLOW DOWN
One of the first things to do in order to build inner calm is to simply slow down. Many of us are living our lives at an ever-faster pace, and trying to balance a whole range of commitments from work to family to relationships. This can leave us feeling restless and frustrated when we are forced to stop, especially when matters are beyond our control. Combat this by taking those moments when you are forced to press pause by doing something that helps you to relax, like deep breathing or listening to music.
INSPIRE YOURSELF
Place inspiring pictures and notes around your home to remind you and your family to "be mindful", "pause" and "take a breath". These visual prompts can be all you need to bring a sense of calm.
STAY GROUNDED
A great way to ground yourself when you're faced with sudden change is to take some deep breaths and visualize roots growing from your feet into the ground. Stand firm like a tree, while the chaos around you blows through your branches and disappears on the breeze.
ENJOY THE LITTLE THINGS
Don't take small, everyday pleasures for granted. These little things, when experienced fully, can become jewel-like moments to look forward to from savouring the first freshly brewed coffee of the day to listening to birdsong.
JUST BREATHE
When you start to feel tense or anxious, just take a moment to "belly breathe". The greater flow of oxygen will bring about instant calm. Breathe in deeply, allowing your stomach to rise outwards. On the out-breath, allow your stomach to fall back.
TREAT YOURSELF
If you're feeling low, try doing something nice, however small, each day to lift your spirits. Whether it's putting fresh sheets on the bed, making time to watch your favourite film or disappearing under a cosy blanket to read a book. Having something to look forward to each day will help you through and raise your spirits.
GO BAREFOOT
Going barefoot is good for our health and it's the perfect opportunity to practise mindfulness. Spend the day barefoot at home today and enjoy feeling the texture and temperature beneath your feet as you move from room to room. If you have a garden, and it's warm enough, venture outside and focus on the soft grass beneath your feet.
SEE THE MAGIC IN THE EVERY DAY
Young children are constantly curious. They see the magic in everyday things a spider, a buttercup or bubbles in the bath. They teach us to stop and look again, with amazement, at what is in front of us. Start viewing the world through a child's eyes and see how it brightens up your day.
DO LESS
Instead of cramming as much as possible into your day, do less and do it more slowly, more fully and with more concentration. Take the time to luxuriate in whatever activity you're doing, whether you're cooking supper or chatting to a friend over Skype. You should find the experience relaxing and fulfilling when you're not rushing through tasks.
STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES
Tuning into your senses can help you relish the present moment. Enjoy your sense of smell rain-drenched earth, freshly baked bread or newly laundered clothes. Closing your eyes can sometimes help to heighten your appreciation.
