How to stay mindful and grounded during lockdown
I think it’s safe to say the current experiences of this new virus and the fear and unknown that it brings is new to us all. So how do we cope day to day and not let ourselves be dragged into the anxiety and stress that the media is causing? We need to continue to cultivate mindfulness day to day and I am going to give you tips so you can actually stay happy, grateful and kind.
Mindfulness is based on three key practices. These are awareness, non-judgement and the present moment. I think the present moment plays a big part here because each day brings change and by staying in the present moment we can quickly adapt. Worrying about the future will only cause you stress and anxiety, whereas we need to stay healthy in mind and body.
Wake up with gratitude, think of something each morning that brings you Joy. You may wish to look out the window, listen to the birds, see the lovely sunrise and just be grateful for being alive in your amazing body. You may be grateful for you warm bed or comfy slippers.
Before you begin your day, set an intention or use a positive affirmation. An intention could be to live in the present moment, or to speak to a loved one that day. A positive affirmation could be ‘I have a healthy body’, ‘I am in charge of how I feel and I choose happiness’. These are just ideas, choose anything you like, just make sure it’s positive and act like it’s already happening. Use words like 'I am’ or ‘I have’ rather than ‘I want’.
Plans may be cancelled, or you may not be able to work but think of the opportunities this brings. Here’s some ideas:
- Finish the book you was/are reading
- Watch that box-set
- Do some art such as colouring, painting, or crafts
- Decorate that room
- Spring clean or de-clutter
- Learn a language
Limit spending time on social media and watching the news to only once a day. Avoid getting caught up in the media or online sharing that may or may not be true. Remember what you have here and now and focus on that instead.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by it all then remember to take each day as it comes, maybe even each hour. It’s a good way to stop your wondering mind overthinking about the future. Just focus on what you would like to do in the next hour.
Use the breath as an anchor to bring you back to the present moment. You could try a breathing exercise such as deep balloon breathing or counting. Take a minute out just to sit and breathe. This is a really good way to give your brain a break from the stress.
Self-care is really important, so make the time to relax and do what you enjoy. Fun does not need to be cancelled. We are lucky we have the technology around us to group chat and face-time. Pick up the phone and speak to a family member or a friend each day. Connect with nature, go for walks, get in the garden, notice what is around you. It is wonderful and it is still there!
Stay hydrated and eat healthy food. This is always important for your mind and body. You can still stick to your exercise routine. Even if classes are cancelled or the gym is shut, you can still exercise at your regular time. If you did a yoga class on a Wednesday night, stick to this and do an online lesson at home instead – there’s plenty of videos on YouTube.
Lastly, just remember that nothing is permanent, the universe is constantly changing and this will pass.