Lockdown lessons

Who would've thought we'd be living through a global pandemic? The sudden outbreak of Covid-19 has had an impact on us all in many ways. We had to instantly adjust our lifestyle and daily routines. Social distancing, working from home, wearing masks and carrying hand sanitiser as a handbag essential, has become the new norm. Of course we all wish everything could go back to normal so we can resume our lives, but it is not in our control. So why stress about something you have no control over? Unfortunately, bad things will happen in life, but you can choose how to react and deal with it. It definitely hasn't been an easy one, but don't let it consume you and affect your mental and physical health. It is up to us to decide how we want to perceive a situation. If you fixate on the negatives, it will only bring you down. However, if you try find the good and see it from a different perspective with a positive attitude, it will help you move forward and move past the situation.

I know this is easier said than done and it can be hard to process and deal with everything, but you have the strength. Like many, I struggled so much at the start, but a part of me was also used to it. Last November, I had surgery and my recovery was five months. So for me, lockdown started then. As soon as I healed and was ready to move back to uni, to finish my final year, the national lockdown had started. I felt so depressed and trapped. I was ready to go back to normality, but I couldn't. Instead of constantly feeling down, I realised there has actually been so many positives.

Although I am upset I didn't get to have my final year, I can say I got my degree with a first class honours, whilst only being at uni for two months. Anyone who graduated during Covid, hats off to you! It wasn't easy but we did it.

I was so focused and ready to go into final year with the intention and mindset of getting a first, but it still could have been different had I have been at uni. Whilst I was at home, I barely had any distractions and was so focused on getting my revision done so that I could smash my exams, and I can say I successfully did that! I also had my mum's delicious cooking to keep me going, so again I can't really complain! Nothing beats home cooked food.

In the past year, I have spent so much time with family, a lot more than I normally would. Sometimes, a movie night with your loved ones is all you need. Just being with each other, no matter what we are doing or how long for, are moments I am grateful for. It shows that you don't need to be out and about to create good memories, you can create them in the comfort of your own home. This time has also made mine and my mum's relationship stronger as we have become closer. I have seen how much she does for our family and learnt to appreciate her more. I am thankful for all of this time I have been able to spend with family. I am sure I'm not the only one as I have seen families getting involved on TikTok during this period and it is honestly the cutest thing, especially when it includes parents and grandparents. I know that my Nana was loving lockdown with all the family at home!

As a lot of places are shut, we are encouraged to go for daily walks or do other leisure activities for our health and well-being. A stroll in the park can be so refreshing and satisfying. Even in summer, people would have picnics in the park or even their garden. It reiterates the fact you don't need a lot to have a good time and also helps us appreciate nature and our surroundings more. I also feel as working from home has helped a lot of people balance their working and personal life, making it easier to incorporate their fitness routines to their day. Even though gyms are closed, a lot of people have been doing their best to workout at home. It is good to see more emphasis is being placed on health and fitness, as it is so important for our quality of life.

Another good thing is that people have been focusing on their self-development, achieving their personal goals and pursuing their hobbies. On social media, I have seen so many food pages, baking pages, new ventures, house renos and more, which people have started and it is so nice to see! Even for me, I have wanted to blog for years but never had the confidence. But during this time, I have been able to build up this confidence and finally start. Perhaps if it wasn't for lockdown, a lot of this wouldn't have happened.

It is clear to say working from home has its perks, from finding work-life balance, achieving personal goals and spending more time with family. It also has the added advantage of saving money spent on the commute to work, lunches and after work dinners/drinks.

I think for me, the biggest benefit is that this time has allowed me to heal both mentally and physically. It is like we are stuck with our thoughts, and although it can be overwhelming, it can also be good. I have been able to reflect on the past, which I have now gotten over and accepted. I am finally in a place I've wanted to be at for so long. Sometimes we don't allow ourselves to heal because we avoid thinking about the situation and distract ourselves. With lockdown, we no longer have such distractions and it is a time we can use to self-reflect, learn and grow. I look back and see how far I have come and I am so proud of myself. I am grateful for this time because it has helped me get to where I am.

Rather than questioning when all this will end, use it to your advantage and better yourself. We used to complain we have little time, and blame factors like going into work. Well, now you have the time, take advantage of it and use it wisely.

Overall, I think it has been a detox for individuals and the earth. Not only has it benefited people in some ways, but it has been good for the environment too. Like I said, I know it is a difficult situation, more for some than others, but you have the strength to get through it. Always remember to focus on the positives, focus on yourself and look after your physical and mental health. You are not alone. Be safe and stay happy.

Lots of love,

V x

Photo creds: @Pinterest