"I feel more connected to myself and grateful for the world outside"

To take care of my health and wellbeing during lockdown I have been trying to follow a routine. Just knowing what a good week looks like on paper makes life feel less chaotic. I can choose to just do the essential things when I feel too tired to do it all and if I stray completely it's there written down ready for me to start again! 

My lockdown routine has included regular wake up, mealtimes and bed time; keeping my home clean  - washing the dishes and doing just one other small job every day has kept me from feeling overwhelmed too often; exercise - there's been our dog to walk and our allotment to tend and with money saved from unspent bus fares I bought an electric bike, but when I struggle to leave the house there's been the Recovery Centre Qi Gong class on Zoom and so so many yoga videos on Youtube; self-care - bathing, brushing my teeth and daring, with help from Youtube, to cut my own hair; and regular mindful and grounding exercises inspired by Youtube videos made by Abbie at the Recovery Centre. I have also avoided the news and watched as much comedy and old episodes of Columbo as possible!

I was terrified of using video chat before lockdown but it has really helped me stay connected and take part in activities that feed my soul, especially art. I have done Recovery College courses and attended Art and Craft groups and Mindfulness drop-in sessions all via Zoom.  As I'm quite an introvert I can't say I've minded the solitude and the peace and quiet too much but lockdown has really taught me the importance of connection. I found the "clap for the NHS" every Thursday really moving. I joined an online choir for the summer and I've noticed I've been making more effort to stay in touch with family and friends, mainly with silly messages on Whatsapp. I even joined Instagram to connect with other folks making art.

It has been really valuable to be able to speak with my Recovery Worker every month, and knowing I can reach out whenever I'm struggling has been really reassuring.

Despite the distance lockdown has imposed I think I might feel more connected to myself and grateful for the world outside than I ever have before.

Preston Park Recovery Centre is currently providing a telephone support service to clients with mental health support needs and a range of online activities in adherence with the social distancing advice set out by the Government.