Africa-Press – Lesotho. As we enter these two weeks of Code Red Lockdown in Lesotho, we are again reminded of the toll this pandemic has on our lives and livelihoods. People react differently in
times of uncertainty and this is such a time where our mental fortitude is called upon to keep us functional and healthy. The virus has taken hold in all
communities across the districts. The deaths aren’t just numbers or statistics anymore but are names of people we know; family members, relatives colleagues, friends
and neighbors. It has come to a point where “If you are not infected you are affected’. Staying at home may be limiting but it doesn’t need to be boring.
There are plenty of productive things you can take up to pass the time. This is an opportune time to start on that project, hobby or activity you and your family have always wanted to do
but never had the time to begin. Here are some suggestions on what you can do to keep your creative juices flowing and managing your mental health in the process.
1.
Set Goals: Productivity is about progress. It’s about breaking long-term goals down into daily actions so you can grow and develop. By setting regular daily or weekly goals we can
prioritize what’s really important without feeling overwhelmed or overstretched. Set goals for everything from cleaning, reading, exercise, business and life goals.
2.
Read a book/ listen to a podcast or audio book: There are endless benefits to reading. Whether you are looking at improving your vocabulary, learn something new,
escape to another world or relax. Visit your nearest book store or download an EBook. Podcasts are helpful as you are able to listen to one while doing other activities such as cleaning or excersising. Or you could just lie on the couch and enjoy a great series.
3.
Create a Bucket list: Think positive and look forward to sunnier days. Rather than wallowing in your pyjamas for the 5th day in a row, change your
outlook and reflect on all the things you’ll be able to do once lockdown restrictions are lifted. Whether it’s a road trip, bungee jumping, learning to
play an instrument or writing a novel, allow yourself to dream and escape the dull reality of the day. This is a great activity in managing your mental health. Dreaming and imagining take you on a magic journey and give you hope to look forward to another day.
4.
Plant a Herb Garden: Nothing clears the mind better than being in the open fresh air and putting your green fingers to good use. The recent rains have been a blessing
and the ground is well nourished. The smell of wet soil after good rains is therapeutic. All you need is a small plot in your garden. The joy of cooking with fresh herbs from your own garden grown by your own hands is satisfying.
5.
Update your Resume and Professional Accounts: With the threat of job losses and role changes in organizations due to the changing nature of work, this might be the opportune time to review and update your CV and LinkedIn
profile. It is time to give all your professional documents and accounts a makeover. If you have learned or acquired any new skills since your last update, it may be time to add them to your updated resume.
In approaching this period of not too comfortable times, let’s keep praying for our beloved nation and all its children for Love, Health and Wealth. The above are just 5 simple mostly family
orientated activities that can bring you all together. God knows we need stick together now more than ever. As roles may change, employment threatened,
luxuries become more scares, the levels of stress, anxiety, trauma and fear increase. The levels of discomfort and violence will also be on the up and up.
Recent statistics in the news and other publications have reported on this. Talk, meditate, pray and always send positive vibes into the psychosphere.
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