There's no doubt we're all feeling a little more anxious and uncertain at the moment, no matter where in the world you live. The Corona Virus outbreak brings with it, a lot of stress-induced anxiety even in those that have never experienced these feelings before. 

It's important that at a time like now, we support ourselves and each other, and a big factor of that is staying calm and positive. So even if you're self-isolating we've rounded up the best tips to keep you feeling connected and calm during this anxious time. 

Keep in Touch with Family and Friends  

Humans are creatures of comfort and habit, so go back to your home comforts and surround yourself with your closest friends and family. If you're not able to go back to your family or friends for safety reasons, be sure to stay in touch regularly through online apps such as FaceTime and Skype. Make a point of seeing eachother's faces instead of talking over the phone as this can really make a difference, laughter and smiles are contagious. Be sure to share positive news with eachother and plan future events and gatherings for when this is all over.  

Check Up On Your Community and Those in Need 

Even in self-isolation it is good to keep up to date with what is going on in your local community. Try downloading social networking apps such as Next-door, designed to let you connect and talk to those in your surrounding area. Pay extra attention, being sure to look out for anyone that may need support, including the elderly and vulnerable that are unable to make it out. Whether its delivering supplies, donating to a local food-bank or collecting post for someone vulnerable it's never a bad time to do a good deed. 

Detox Your Phone 

Staying up to date with the news and latest on social media at this time is important, but also try to change your habits so that it doesn't become religious. The statistics and constant discussion can become overwhelming. Try swapping your screen-time to more stress reducing apps such as Calm and Breathe2Relax that encourage you to relax, practise new breathing techniques and open your mind to new perspectives.   

Mediation and self care is good all year round, but now that you have time, make a point of practising everyday and clearing your mind. Try 10 minutes before you get out of bed to start your day off fresh. 

Implement a Daily Routine

Working from home has its perks (we'll take walking upstairs to our laptop over the daily commute in any-day) but it's still important to implement a daily routine to install some sanity. 
While we're not quite sure how long the lockdown will last, we can plan our day to day life for the next couple of weeks ensuring we still have all of our usual yet essential touches to ensure a good work/personal life balance. 

Make sure you have a small yet essential routine to make the most of your day, take the time to get dressed and ready in the morning (proven to boost productivity) and make sure you take regular breaks including a lunch break away from your desk as you would at work. 

Eat Healthy 

Working from home, it can be easy to end up snacking more than you would day to day and on food you wouldn't normally eat. It's important to keep your meal times consistent and avoid eating at your desk. 

Although food is currently limited and we're focusing on stocking up on long-life products be sure to keep stocked of fresh fruits and vegetables. Try swapping your daily produce for frozen alternatives. If you're low on food inspiration, be sure to try blending your frozen fruits into something similar to this delicious smoothie. 

Keep drinking from home strictly until after you finish work and clock off for the day! 

Keep Grateful in a Time of Need  

Global events are a lot to deal with and not easy to escape, we often find ourselves talking about the latest news and developments at any opportunity, which can become overwhelming. We're all guilty of this and that is why we recommend spending more time each day focusing on the positive.

Take time each day to put things into perspective and remember what you are grateful for. Although we're currently stuck in lockdown, remember that you are healthy, your loved ones are safe, you have a roof over your head and access to food and technology. 

Whatever it is that makes you grateful, remind yourself. 

Don't bottle up your Emotions

In a situation like the current climate, at times it can get overwhelming and highly emotional. If you have someone nearby that you can talk to, make time to talk about how you are feeling. If you're self isolating try writing your feelings in a journal, online blog or on social media to get it off your chest and out into the open.
 
Keeping how you're feeling in can make things feel 10x worse and make you feel like you're in this on your own. Others, no matter their mental health will be feeling a heightened sense of stress right now and it may help you both to reach out. 

Make a point of letting your emotions out, calming yourself down and progressing with your day. 

We want to say a big thank you to all our customers for your ongoing support, we really do appreciate your business at this time and always.

During this time we cannot take any orders that require engraving.

Should you have any questions about any of our products or orders or even just to say hello we are here via email, online chat and social media.

Lastly we are currently donating 10% of our proceeds to the NHS (National Health Service). Take care of yourself and your loved ones.

Lots of love, Alona xx