Many of us have been thrust into big changes to our daily routine and habits, and whilst it’s definitely the right thing to do, it can be challenging. It’s hard to get the balance of work and play right, to get into a productive rhythm, to concentrate, to relax and switch off, and for all you wonderful parents out there, all of the above and more with the added challenge of schooling your children now.
What can we do then to make our days productive and at the same time maintain positive mental wellbeing? Here are a few key habits to focus on…
1. Fix your sleep-wake cycle
One of the biggest things you can do to keep a sense of normality is to go to bed and get up at the same time each day. Don’t be tempted if you’re stuck at home to squeeze in extra episodes of your favourite box set on Netflix; your body loves routine. It’s called your Circadian Rhythm and when you work with it by doing the same things at the same time each day, your hormones, energy levels, concentration, fitness, immune function and much more get into the groove.
Switch off at the same time each evening and set your alarm for a consistent start to each day.
2. Structure your day
Let’s not stop with sleep and wake times; give your entire day some structure. You can do this in a number of ways; some of you will like to set times for schooling, work, breaks, exercise and chilling. Generally, if things are in the diary, they happen.
If you’re like me you might prefer to make a (realistic) list of tasks to achieve and then be flexible about how you do them. Either way, you’ll have some structure that’ll stop you feeling lost and out of sorts.
Little tip for you - share the structure with someone and report into them on how it goes. Being accountable makes things happen.
3. Be familiar
Building on our routine theme, stick to as many of the timings and systems that you already have in place. You know how strange it feels when you go on holiday and you have no rhythm, then how hard it is to get back into it when you get back? It’ll be the same here unless we stick to our daily patterns - we like being creatures of habit.
That said, if there’s an opportunity to make an improvement to your day that’s always been missing; time for exercise or just time for yourself to relax, now is a wonderful time to grab it with both hands.
4. Assign space
Whether it’s an entire room, or even just a designated chair at the dining table, clearly define the spaces in which you work, eat, rest and play. By doing so you mentally set boundaries and can find it easier to switch on and off when needed. Make sure everyone in the house is aware of these spaces too so that they are always respected.
5. Talk to someone every day
Especially if you’re home alone, set aside time for a phone call or even better Skype or Facetime. We all know how much human contact means to us and it’s been taken away like never before. The Mental Health Foundation says it’s a good way to maintain positive mental health and cope with stressful times, just like these.
6. Separate your week and weekend
There are two reasons I say this - firstly because it’s easy to keep working and not give yourself a break (I’m sure the kids won’t appreciate 24-7 schooling either)! The second is because it’s also easy to slip into weekend habits like pouring yourself a glass of wine or helping yourself to some treats when you’re at home.
Keep the structure and you can help your waistline, your energy levels, your concentration, your productivity and your sleep quality.
Maybe even write your glass of wine or beer into your Friday schedule…or two yes, it’s definitely been one of those weeks.
7. Get outside if you can
If it’s safe to do so, the great outdoors will probably feel greater than ever before right now. Get some space, some fresh air and enjoy the rejuvenating powers of spring. Whether it’s a walk, a jog, a bicycle ride, hopscotch, hula hooping or just taking the dog out, get some sunlight on your face and your mental and physical wellbeing will keep some balance.
Now more than ever, let’s focus on the things we can control, the things we have power over that can leave us feeling fitter, healthier and happier.