Hello all you beautiful people, I hope you are well and staying safe.
I thought I would write this blog post telling you how I’m dealing with the UK Covid-19 lockdown and my methods for staying sane and not getting too bored.
Tip number one: Make your bed and get dressed every morning
Come on, I know I’m not the only one out there who thinks fuck it, I’m not seeing anyone so no need to change out of my Pjs, but honestly 2 simple things like making your bed and getting changed (even if it’s just into joggers) helps you in your mindset that you’re moving from sleep mode to starting your day. Plus, it means your bed is less of an eye sore!
Tip number 2: Set a routine/schedule
Even if you can’t work from home and you don’t have much to do, setting a plan for the day is sooo helpful. It helps you keep track of time and helps you be more productive. It shows you that you’ve not just spent all day watching Disney plus (although I’m sure you all did it when you first got it!). It helps you add some structure to the day and you can think about what you actually WANT to achieve. Stop making excuses, watch those YouTube videos, read an hour of that book you’ve been putting off. You’ll be surprised at just how helpful this is. You can use a calendar, your phone calendar, reminders etc. Just try it!
Tip number 3: Try to reduce screen time
I am definitely guilty of being lazy and just being a couch potato, so I’ve been making an effort to not always be glued to the TV or my phone. I’ve been doodling in an adult colouring book, reading magazines and listening to audible. It makes me feel like I’ve been more productive and like I’ve got something to show for my day. Funnily enough, that adult colouring book is strangely therapeutic, and I definitely recommend giving a go. You can easily purchase one from Amazon. Reading blogs is also helpful too lol!
Tip number 4: Try and do home workouts/walks
I know it can be hard to self-motivate yourself to work out especially when you don’t have any exercise mats or equipment, but you’ll be surprised at how many things you can do without needing anything. There’s a million different home workout videos on YouTube, you can take a long walk to get fresh air and get out of the house for a bit. (I’ve been taking a 40 minute walk every day after work and I feel so much better for it) You can use home workout apps like 30 day abs, Kayla Istisnes, etc etc. Be creative and why not set yourself a challenge by timing yourself, taking progress pics and telling your friends and family what you’ve been up to.
Tip number 5: Drink plenty
I’ve found this one quite tough. I often boredom eat. Even when I know I’m not hungry I’m raiding the cupboards because I want something to do (and given people are panic buying and stuff isn’t as available in the supermarkets as it was before, – it’s probably not a great idea). I am making an effort to drink more so that I feel full and it is actually helping. I’m also challenging myself to not eat after 9.30PM so that any late-night snacks don’t just sit in my stomach right before bed.
Tip number 6: Try something new
You may always be moaning that you don’t have enough time to do what you want do, the things you have always found an excuse not to do! Well here’s your chance! Start a blog, create a new Instagram, learn how to sew. Whatever it is give it a go. Even if you fail at least you gave it a go! You could always sort out your clothes/loft too and get rid of all that crap you’ve accumulated and hoarded over the years!
Tip number 7: Bake and try new recipes
I found this really helpful as I feel like I’m learning something new and get to eat loads of goodies. I watch a lot of Jamie Oliver and YouTube videos for inspiration of new recipes. Share it with your social connections, share your recipes. It’s fun and again, you feel like you’ve been productive. I’ve been making bread, soups, smoothies, jam tarts. The list is endless, so give it a try!
Marmite + cheese scrolls 
Smoothie 
Sweet Potato Roti
Tip number 8: Re-kindle lost connections
I know a lot of you may have people out there that you’ve not made an effort with. You’ve let your busy lives and jobs take over. During this lock down why don’t you take the time to call or face time some old friends and let them know what you’ve been up to. You can’t see each other but having those calls make it really special and the reward you get back is amazing. Yeah, it’s annoying to feel like you’re always the one to make the effort first, but this can be a lonely time so speak to friends, make new ones and spread positivity. They probably were meaning to text you but were maybe nervous. Take the leap and have a good old natter like the days before social where you could only find out how people are by actually having a conversation!
I hope you guys found these tips helpful. They’ve definitely worked for me.
I’d also like to say that if any of you need anyone to speak to then you can always reach out to me.
Look after yourselves, and stay tuned for more posts coming soon!
With love
Natasha
Tattiexo
