6 Things You Can Do Whilst Social Distancing

A lot of people have more time on their hands that they don’t know what to do with because, in the span of a few weeks, the world has been turned upside down by the Coronavirus pandemic and the need for social distancing.

It’s completely natural to worry and understandable to feel many strong emotions as we face uncertainty and change. To counter this, we can find many small ways to relieve our feeling of helpless and alleviate the limbo we find ourselves in.

We may feel overwhelmed and not be able to cope as these situations activate our primal survival responses or they may be a trigger of times past when were anxious or powerless.

When you feel out of control and overwhelmed by massive amounts of information and the fear of the future take a moment to breathe deeply. Move out of your head (where all of the future-predicting lives) and into your body. Check-in with the sensations of your body. Notice what emotions you are feeling and remind yourself that at this moment you are safe, protected, nourished and unharmed. Anytime you feel anxiety rising, go back to the breath and breathe deeply.

Depending on your circumstances, here’s some ideas you can do during this time of social distancing, self-isolation and quarantine. These small actions are simple but may quell your anxiety and give you some purpose.

Stay at Home

I know, this one isn’t a big surprise. For some people this isn’t possible, but if you are at home, then consider this a staycation. There are probably many loose ends and things you haven’t got around to doing that you can focus on now. Learn a language, pick up the guitar that’s been looking at you, read the books that have sat patiently on the shelves or craft. Being creative and productive can ease uncomfortable feelings.

Check On Neighbours

There are people in your neighbourhood that are likely to be more at risk than you. Let’s make sure everyone has the food and supplies they need and someone to call if they become ill.

Support Small & Local Businesses

There are so many small businesses who hang in the balance right now and are doing their best to weather this storm, especially those who rely on in-person sales or have a brick-and-mortar location. If you are able to, support them; think of things you were going to buy in the future and go ahead and get them now.

Currently restaurants are still open for delivery and takeaway so use this as an opportunity to try all those places you never got round to going to - in the comfort of your own home!

Uber Eats has waivered delivery fees for independent restaurants and drivers can leave the food at your door – social distancing approved.

Donate to a Foodbank

1 in 5 people (around 14 million people) live below the poverty line in the UK. If you are in a position where you are able to, consider buying something for your local foodbank and most supermarkets often have a place where you can drop off supplies whilst doing your regular shop.

Keep moving

Please don’t use this as a time to binge watch box-sets and work your way through all pasta you over-stocked up on. Open the windows, go for a walk and get some fresh air. For those of you lucky enough to have a garden, now is a wonderful time to get out and plant.

Being in nature has so many benefits, especially when it comes to stress relief; hearing the birds, seeing the blue sky and blossom reminds us that life is beautiful. Savour those moments and enjoy the blossom which is currently putting on a show.

Refrain from hoarding

This period of self-isolation isn’t going to last forever. There are other people who need food and supplies, so be mindful of how much you’re taking and ask yourself if you’re buying disproportionately. Some supermarkets have started opening and letting elderly and vulnerable people shop first for an hour or two so they have their provisions.

Take care, listen to your body, don’t get sucked into the speculation and panic that’s happening online, in newspapers and TV. Look out the window and see the daffodils emerging and find the moments to be grateful for. For most of us, this is the one and only time in our lives we’ll have to live with less; find gratitude in the small things and appreciate all we have. This too shall pass and we’ll be wiser people because of it.

- F

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