How to Survive Self-Isolation

It pays to be prepared with patience, medicines, food and organizing family visits and staying positivity. This does not include panic buying or stockpiling. Together let's create a new normal, I have included some great practical tips to help survive this pandemic. A large number of people are in self-isolation because of potential exposure or confirmed diagnosis, and many also choose to self-isolate at home as a precaution.

Keep a healthy diet 

Look out for healthy protein, vitamins and anti-oxidants, food that is power packed with a high nutritional value. Purchase lots of small items from your local food shops try and find a small business that will cater for your family needs with healthy options, with lots of fruits and vegetables that you can steam and freeze. Include fibre and food that will support a healthy gut, now is also a great time to start those juices and maybe a detox. eating the right foods will not prevent you from contacting the virus however it can help to make your body prepare a stronger immune system. Sleep deprivatation and stress overload can deplete the body systems of the hormone cortisol with prolonged over use, immune function is severely compromised. 

Drink lots of water to stay hydrated, look for ingredients to make amazing smoothies, try to stay away from alcohol. We do not know how long this isolation could be and weight and unhealthy lifestyle will take its toll on your mind and body eventually.

Preparation 

• Plan ahead and think about what you will need in order to be able to stay at home for the full 7 or 14 days
• Talk to your employer, friends and family to ask for their help to access the things you will need to make your stay at home a success
• Think about and plan how you can get access to food and other supplies such as medication or supplies that you will need during this period.
• Ask friends or family to drop off anything you need or order supplies online, but make sure these are left outside your home for you to collect
• Make sure that you keep in touch with friends and family over the phone or through social media
• Think about things you can do during your time at home. People who have successfully completed a period of staying at home have kept themselves busy with activities such as cooking, reading, exercising, online learning, board games, home spa days with manicures and pedicures, not forgetting to binge watch those must see films!

Don’t just sit in front of a screen – vary your activities

   Clear out your wardrobe Maria Kondo style de-cluttering, 

   Give yourself a manicure, protect those hands with luxury creams to nourish and condition after the continual use of hand sanitizer and washing.

Read a book, write a book, blog or start a podcast.

Make a photo album of all your treasured moments,back up your phone pictures,  delete unwanted pics and emails or files on your PC.

Plant some flowers, have no garden create a flower box or herb box.

Limit your news intake

Try not to be fixated on the daily news, too much stress can leave you feeling powerless. My disturbed sleep pattern has caused me to read unusual amounts of information, on COVID-19. I am sure that we all feel empowered if we are in control, however continual reading and watching the news can cause additional stress. Limit your access to social media, its a great opportunity to stay positive. Choose a reputable site to find out your news information, check your finances and organise delayed or holiday style payments so that you have monies for food, heating, electricity. 

Maintain a sense of routine 

For both children and adults, it’s super important to maintain a regular routine during the day. Start by having regular breakfast and lunch, keeping to set meal times to bedtimes. For working parents, who would normally have that morning barista coffee, keep that routine as it will set you up for the day. You shouldn’t forget about your own needs during this period of self-isolation. Holistic treats, Meditation, Yoga, and other forms of self-care will help ensure your own well-being during this time of inner reflection. try and see it as a period of time in your life, and not necessarily a bad one.  It will mean a different rhythm of life, a chance to be in touch with others in different ways than usual.
Sunlight also triggers the skins production of Vitamin D, this is vital to aid the protection against influenza.  Go to the local park, take regular 10-15 minute daily bursts of fresh air and enjoy the sunlight ensure you have your sunblock to protect the skin.

This is a global pandemic, It will be difficult for some people to separate themselves from others at home. However you should do your very best to follow these simple tips, with additional and professional guidance available to support everyone in your household.
Recognise if you have triggers for anxiety, emotional symptoms, we will all need to relax, to calm stop feeling edgy and step down. Enjoy hot baths, sleep and above all stay away from speculation, draw on your reserves to remain ahead of the challenges everyday.

Enjoy family, call friends and do your best to distract yourself from the global worry.

Try to regularly wash your hands, avoid touching your face, and clean frequently touched surfaces.

Stay safe and well, during these trying times!

Cheryl xoxo