In this article, disability blogger and Motability Scheme customer, Sarah Alexander, explains how she’s keeping herself busy during self-isolation.
This is not something I ever thought I’d be writing; the country is on lockdown; we’ve been advised to stay indoors to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and the majority of the UK are at home because of this virus. It’s a worrisome time, especially as I’m someone who falls into the vulnerable category. I am anxious for me and my loved ones. Please stay home if you are not a key worker!
A lot of people are giving tips and advice on things that you can or should be doing during this time at home and although it might seem like you have to be doing something productive with your time, don’t feel like it is absolutely necessary if you don’t want to. There is no right or wrong way of managing your time, you can be in your feelings but try not to let them control you. If you are struggling with your mental health, I highly recommend finding ways to distract yourself, but I realise it is not that easy for everyone.
I spend a lot of time at home due to my disability so have plenty of ways to keep myself busy, and I am not going to lie, my anxiety levels have been high the last few weeks so when I haven’t been practicing distraction techniques, I have been napping, and not feeling guilty about it.
My top 10 things to do during isolation are:
Write
Writing is an escape, it’s my main way of being creative and I enjoy it. If you’ve always wanted to write that novel, why not start now? There are lots of online networks and forums that offer advice and tips so give it a go.
Learn something new
A language, knitting, musical instrument, photography and editing skills, perfect that winged liner; there are so many things you can learn online for free.
Arts and crafts
Start a scrapbook, fill a photo album, draw, paint, create.
Read/listen
I’m sure you’ll have a book (or ten in my case) you haven’t got around to reading. I am also really enjoying listening to podcasts, why not give that a go, if you haven’t already.
Play games
Either boardgames, on your phone, console or online. I played a boardgame over Facetime with my nephew earlier this week and it was lots of fun.
Video chat
Since the majority of my friends and family are at home, I can video chat with them during the day and it breaks the day up. I love seeing their faces when we talk as it reminds me that I am not alone.
Exercise/stretch
Moving the body, even if only a little to release some tension is really beneficial. Even better if you have a garden and can do it in the fresh air.
House chores
Clean, rearrange furniture, sort through unwanted items. My bedroom has been completely reorganised and there’s multiple bags to go to the charity shop once isolation is over. I hate sorting out my wardrobe but it absolutely had to be done.
TV/Netflix
Watch that series you’ve heard everyone talk about, have a movie marathon, catch up on your favourite show. I’ve watched a few interesting documentaries and am eagerly anticipating a new season of my favourite show.
List
Make a list of things you want to do once isolation is over!
Most importantly do things that make you happy and don’t feel pressured to do anything at all if you don’t want to. I’ve had just as many non-productive days as I have productive days, and that is okay.
The most important thing any of us can do right now is to stay safe, so please do that.
Read more from Sarah at www.fromsarahlex.com
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