So here we are, actually breathing the ancient Chinese curse of “Living in Interesting Times,” and interesting they are indeed! Nobody needs to tell you how tough things will be, because you are there right now, actually in the thick of it and there’s no getting out of the situation we are in now. Here’s some advice on Beating the Lockdown!
So, it’s time to knuckle down and get through it. Just like holding low horse stance or iron bridge (literally knuckle down)! This is all about resilience now. Part of life is getting through tough times, no matter how long they go on for, and despite this to thrive and be successful.
For a lot of us, we are responsible for others (near or far) as we get through this too. One thing you have to remember is that if you fall apart, you won’t be any good to help anyone else. You HAVE to take care of yourself so that you can look after others.
Mindset is key. The first thing I suggest you do is try to see this as an opportunity, not a hardship. Spend some time considering all of the things that you could actually spend time doing now.
I want to share some of the things that can help you to get through this. Here are five things I recommend you do to make things easier as we go through the lockdown.
Exercise & Mindfulness
For me Kung Fu is the ultimate way of dealing with stress and negativity. The very best way of beating the lockdown: Endorphins and Inner Peace! Personally, I am training twice a day, then teaching my children, and then teaching my classes in the evenings as well. As all of my students will tell you, there’s nothing like a good Kung Fu class to make your problems look different afterwards. Join the online classes! Don’t feel like it? Force yourself – you’ll feel much better for it!
Express Yourself
Do something creative. Craft works of art. Doodle, garden, paint, dance, sing, write a blog, write poetry, play an instrument. Anything at all. Allow your emotions to express themselves in your creativity. It will make you feel so much better. The art that we create in these days will be a part of history, so get at it!
Ritual & Routine
When you are in a dark place, it’s very easy to sink into depression, not get out of bed until late, eat rubbish, drink too much and sink into a downward spiral. Force yourself to get up early(ish), open the curtains, make your bed, wash, exercise, eat at normal times (even if your meals have to be a little inventive right now), have a routine, stick to a timetable. Following a plan will help to create a sense of normality when times are anything but!
See the Funny Side
Don’t dwell on the negative. Be really careful with the news and social media: right now my Facebook feed is stuffed full of stuff that I just don’t want to see, especially when I want to be keeping myself in a positive place. Try to find the Humour in your situation – laugh about it with someone. There is a funny side to so many misfortunes if you can find it, and laughing rather than moaning is a very important skill when you’re facing adversity!
Go through it with someone else
Even if they’re not living with you, stay in touch with others who are getting through it, and support each other. Friends, family or your community are priceless right now. If at all possible, use technology. See their face on your screen if you’re not with them. For me it is so good to see my students’ faces in our online classes, and for us to train our way through the hardship together. This gives us stuff to look forward to, and helps keep us going!
And remember to cut the others around you some slack – as their world get smaller, little things get much bigger, and they will be upset about things that would have never been a problem before. Learn to forgive!
Stay safe and well, and please get in touch if you need any help with Beating the Lockdown!
Dave
