During the pandemic there has been a sharp focus on mental health. As humans we’re simply just not made to be indoors all day. As the days are getting closer and closer to the end of lockdown patience is running out and more of us are dying to do more than just go to the shops. June may still be a few weeks away but hopefully whilst waiting these tips can help you keep your mind active and happy. As it’s #mentalhealthawarenessweek we thought this would be the perfect time to share them with you.
Stay Smart
The first thing I would recommend is to stay knowledgeable. As humans when we stop learning no matter how small the nugget of knowledge our life tends to feel mundane. We normally learn something everyday however when stuck in the same environments and seeing the same things there tends to be a lack of exposure to the opportunity to learn and broaden your horizon. I would recommend reading or watching documentaries, it’s my new favourite way to learn and would simply start by looking at things that interest you and go from there.
Give Some Time To Your Deen
With all the free time we have now it would be a mistake to not dedicate some of it to Allah. I used to avoid praying on a regular basis due to the fact that I would be out and about and wearing makeup. However, since I’m inside and not wearing any (alhamdulillah) I have no excuse to not pray. As a Muslim not only does reading Namaz give me a calming feeling but it is an essential to keeping yourself close to Allah. Taking time to read and understand the Quran is also a great way to keep your mind active. Reading words of wisdom not only helps to educate yourself but can help to motivate and give you ideas of what to do with your free time which will bring you closer to Allah such as acts of charity and kindness.
Don’t Lock Yourself Away
Almost as important as staying knowledgeable is making sure you’re staying social. I think that for many this is a no-brainer but whilst you may not be able to go out with your friends some phone-calls, face-times or simply a message can really go a long way. If you’re trying to stay active, maybe meet up with friends in a small bubble and go on jogs. Whatever it is I would recommend trying to do it with friends. You could also try virtual movie nights. There’s apps where you can all share a screen and watch together whilst having a view of everybody’s face. Whilst it’s a far cry from a real cinema, making the effort to connect will feel good.
Keep A Morning Routine
Now whilst it may depend on the type of person you are, I would recommend a good morning routine. Since lockdown was enforced it is very easy to slip into just doing nothing all day. Having a good morning routine gets your mind ready for the day but also releases endorphins which make you happier. Stretch, eat a hearty breakfast and make a to do list to get your day started with purpose.
Get Active
Being in lockdown it is so easy to forget to even go outside since we’ve just gotten so used to staying in. However venturing outside once in a while is proven to make you happier. Going on a simple 10-15 minute walk allows you to get some fresh air, exercise and sunlight! You may even see something new whilst out and about. Going outside may also help if you’re feeling claustrophobic which personally has intensified since the lockdown commenced.
Try Something New
If you’re still struggling and trying to figure out what to do with all your free time. I would recommend trying out a new hobby. I would say go with something that has peaked your interest and give it a go. You’re inside and nobody can see you if you mess up so there is nothing to lose. Personally I’ve been interested in knitting and creating my own knitwear. Now whilst I may be far from being an expert my creations actually fit! There’s tons of online tutorials for anything and if you really get into it you could always take some online classes to really master your hobby. Who knows what could happen?
In trying times like these it’s extremely important to keep your mind active. We’re living in a world where isolation and repetition are the norm. It can be so easy to get into a monotonous routine. If you are feeling that way hopefully a couple of these tips help to make your day just a little bit better. Mental health is a very important issue and if you are struggling with it do not hesitate to talk to someone about it. There is so much help around so do not feel like you are alone. Whether you reach out to a fellow mama or seek help in a professional capacity, never suffer in silence. I hope you incorporate a few of these ideas and share what worked for you.
