Finding Comfort in the Dark: Sharing my Positive Experiences from Lockdown

Let’s not beat around the bush, 2020 has been tough. Most of us agree that the events of this year have felt like one big avalanche of confusion, uncertainty and frustration. Whether you’re a student who’s had their academic year cut short or a furloughed 9-5 worker, everyone’s been finding it difficult to stay optimistic about the future. But even amidst all the anxiety and upset caused by lockdown, and the spread of coronavirus cases, there have been moments of comfort and light relief.

People across the nation have pulled together during this turbulent period to share their encouraging stories from lockdown. Not only does this show how resilient people are but it also demonstrates community spirit with so many people utilising their time to support the most vulnerable. From mastering a new skill or getting the opportunity to binge watch a series, each story is worth celebrating. No matter how minor it may be, that small gleaming break in the clouds can sometimes be all it takes to get through a challenging day.

One important thing to remember however is that there is no right or wrong response to such unprecedented times. Everyone’s feelings are valid and some people may have suffered more acutely than others. However, I decided to share some of my own personal stories and new coping mechanisms as a source of guidance if anyone might be particularly struggling with the current lockdown restrictions. Although it’s difficult, try to not feel pressured by what everyone else chooses to do with their time. Prioritise your own wellbeing and only do what you feel comfortable with!

Becoming self-reliant during lockdown:

Whilst being supportive and kind to your friends and family is so important, no relationship in the world is more important than the one you have with yourself. Initially, the prospect of being alone with my anxious thoughts and not being allowed to see my friends was a daunting prospect. As they fostered a sense of emotional safety for me, I was unsure how I would become self-sufficient.

Yet, after trying the 5 Positive Affirmations activity, self-love and self-acceptance finally started to come more naturally. How you may ask? Every morning, I would write down five things I love about myself. Now I won’t lie to you, I did feel very silly at first. But by doing this exercise regularly, the messages gradually started to sink in. I no longer needed to hear these statements from other people to believe them. Or in other words, I no longer felt dependent on other opinions to feel confident and happy in myself. I’m finally feeling comfort in my own skin.

Treating myself once a week to a day of indulgence:

Even when we have more time on our hands, it’s natural to feel burned out. Setting one day a week just to unwind helped me become a lot calmer in general. When you’re not bound by any strict schedule, it feels so liberating. It wasn’t long before I made this a regular thing.

Every Saturday would be my treat day. The day where I didn’t set my alarm. The day I indulged in a nice relaxing bath with a sweet smelling bath bomb. And the day I curl up on the sofa with my family and enjoy a cosy film night. Taking time to enjoy doing the things you love can help you gain a new perspective on what’s happening in your life. I easily lose myself in the hustle and bustle of modern life, so much so that my mind never really gets an opportunity to switch off from work mode. A self-care day gives me a well needed break as well as a nice refreshed feeling both physically and mentally.

I hope these examples provide some support and reassurance if you may be struggling at the moment. Stay safe and remember it’s ok to take a step back every once in a while. Never feel pressured to meet any expectation.

Katie Heyes

Tweet to @heyes_katie

Featured Image courtesy of 5688709 from Pixabay