Tuesday 28-07-2020 - 15:49

Hey guys, Cal here.

 

As the Government eases the national lockdown, telling us to prepare for a ‘new normal', I think it's fair to say that I'm not the only one that is feeling a little scared and uneasy. 

 

If I’m being honest, I’m pretty terrified!

 

A piece of advice that has saved my bacon on more than one occasion came from an old counsellor of mine some years ago when we were discussing my own feelings of anxiety, and more generally, how I tend to view the world.

 

‘The need for absolute control is like gripping the earth in an effort to stop it from turning. You can try your hardest, but it will keep going.’

 

Sure, while it would be nice to have complete control over a given situation, we are rarely afforded that luxury – especially not in the midst of a global pandemic. 

 

The prospect of being forced out of a routine and into lockdown where time and days stopped having any meaning, and THEN being expected to go back to ‘the real world’ is probably not going to be a smooth ride.

 

But it’s not going to be for anyone, and with that in mind, here are some tips to keep us all on an even kilter…

 

 

 

Meditate

I know, I know... You’re probably reading this like – ‘Is he for real?!’. 

 

But don’t worry, I’m not asking you to sit atop a mountain with a gong and a robe – though, if that is your jam there is no shade here.

 

What I am advising is that you take a few minutes a day just to catch up with yourself with some calm background music and have some “you time.”

 

The beauty of meditation is that it can be carried out in whichever way suits you. 

 

Want to meditate with a nice warm bath? Do it. 

 

Want to watch your favourite film and have snacks? Treat yourself. 

 

Fancy going on a big long walk and sitting in the sun (whilst we have it)? Sounds like a plan! 

 

Which brings me onto my next point…

 

 

 

Walking

Getting out the house and going for a walk, even just around the block, has been HUGE for my anxiety and worries about the easing of lockdown. 

 

Speaking for myself, having some time that is separate from the rest of my day whether I’m on my own, or walking with friends, has gotten me out some pretty deep ruts on the mental health front.

 

 

Hobbies

 

I’ve also found that having a hobby has given me a sense of normality and a fixed point of routine for my days even when they are starting to change. 

 

An example? I’ll give myself an hour or two on an evening to write. Just sit and write, nothing else. 

 

Having that fixed point will give me a sense of structure and normality even when things are as far from the latter than they have ever been in my lifetime.

 

 

And that’s that! These are some tips that have helped me come to terms with the shifting of lockdown procedures.

 

Got any of your own? 

 

Let us know via social media! Tag us @edghillsu on Instagram and Twitter, or search Edge Hill Students’ Union on Facebook. 

 

 

 

Cal Chambers is your Vice President Welfare for 2020/21. If you would like to read more about his priorities for the year, or would like to contact him directly, head over to his officer page for more information.