Well, here we are again in lockdown.

Clubs Without Borders is a small business heavily impacted by the current lockdown, not only now, but the lag effect it will have on our business for the rest of the year. We have already cancelled three months of training and once we know lockdown will end, it will be months before we can reschedule and get our momentum back, so as a small business, we know how tough it is. I do appreciate that many people are experiencing distress after discovering that the lockdown will be extended through to the end of August. Whether you are feeling angry, annoyed or lonely during this time – we have come up with nine strategies to strengthen your coping skills during this challenging time.

Here’s our top nine tips to help you cope during lockdown:

1. Remember that the current situation is not permanent

The current lockdown will not last forever. When you feel stressed and overwhelmed, it is easy to fall into patterns of all-or-nothing thinking. Keep in mind that lockdown restrictions will diminish in the future as the pandemic wanes, and vaccinations rates increase.

2. Call your friends and neighbors to check in with them

It is important that you check in with other people during this time, for your sake as well as theirs. Due to the nature of a lockdown, people are more isolated, and the problem is felt more acutely by those who live alone. Do your best to check in with friends, family, and neighbours via telephone or Zoom, or send a simple text message just to say hello. You might be pleasantly surprised by the exchange it sparks.

3. Exercise and eat a well-balanced diet

This will look different for everyone but as long as you get your body moving and blood pumping, all movement helps. This can be as simple as going for a walk outside in nature or doing your favourite strength or cardio session, both are beneficial. Complement this by staying hydrated and eating a well-balanced diet.

4. Meditate

Setting time aside to practice mindfulness and meditation is a great coping tool. Meditation can help you feel better because it encourages you to focus on positive, peaceful thoughts. Practicing meditation can also relieve the stress and muscle tension that you may have. Click this link to get started.

5. Take up a new hobby

A 2010 study published by the American Journal of Public health found that taking up creative hobbies such as painting or drawing boosts your mood. Use this time to start a new creative pursuit that you previously did not have time for.

6. Speak with a professional counsellor via telemedicine

It is always okay to seek professional help, whether you are struggling with a serious mental health condition or are simply overwhelmed. Keep in mind that studies have shown that teletherapy is just as effective as in-person therapy, so you can speak with a professional via Zoom or telephone during the lockdown.

7. Be patient with yourself

It’s important to remember that you are doing your best, despite difficult circumstances. Even if you did not accomplish as much today as you’d like, being in lockdown is a huge adjustment mentally, so do not be hard on yourself. You as a person are much more than the things you get done that day.

8. Practice gratitude

When going through truly challenging times, it can be especially tough to focus on the good things in your life. Just start small: write down one single thing you are grateful for each day. Whether it be the hot shower you just had, your pet keeping you company or the nature walk you went on that morning, they’re different for each person. It is well known that practicing gratitude will give you a shift in perspective.

9. Watch something on Netflix, Hulu, or Television

One good way to cope, if done in moderation, is to find a new TV series to watch. It is especially beneficial if it’s a comedy. A study conducted by Stanford University discovered that laughing increases dopamine, a neurotransmitter in your brain responsible for improving your mood. Popular comedy series such as Schitt’s Creek, New Girl, or I like Big Bang Theory, are available to watch on Netflix. Having a good laugh will significantly cheer you up. For me, romcoms and Christmas movies also help.

During this time, try to avoid dwelling on the negative. Focus instead on what you can do, and you will feel empowered in ways you did not expect. Experiencing fear and apprehension is a normal response to the lockdown, but it won’t last forever. The inner strength you develop during this time will provide lasting benefits for your future. Of course, if you are struggling to alleviate the negative thoughts, please seek help from professionals and the likes of Lifeline, but make sure you tell your family and friends and know, that we have all been there.

So be safe, get vaccinated, and please reach out on your phone, not only to your friends and family, but those in the community who may be vulnerable or living alone. Lastly, enjoy the time you have with your loved ones and family with whom you live, the time you wouldn’t normally have with everyone working. We are a call away if anyone needs to talk and we look forward to seeing you all on the other side!

Debbie

 

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2804629/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7077612/

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/a-healthy-laugh/

https://www.verywellmind.com/all-or-nothing-thinking-2584173

https://www.verywellmind.com/mindfulness-the-health-and-stress-relief-benefits-3145189