Eating together, being grateful: Life lessons from the lockdown

EATING TOGETHER

 Sitting down to have meals together is one of the best things you can do to strengthen family bonds and improve communication. Research also reveals that teens who eat regular family meals feel emotionally stronger

COOKING FROM SCRATCH 

Lockdown has turned us from convenience‘cobble-it-togetherers’ into creative cooks. Many of us have been rooting through cupboards and combining ingredients to produce something nourishing, while trying to reduce food waste. It’s good for the budget as you’re using staples to cut costs and waste, and it also provides a mental challenge,by encouraging you to be inventive in the kitchen

BEING GRATEFUL

                                     

In these difficult times we’ve learned to count our blessings, and there’s a reason to continue. Giving thanks is an instant mood lifter and improves health and well-being. Research also shows that grateful people have lower stress levels and sleep better. By acknowledging the good things, however small, you’ll feel more satisfied with your overall life experience and this helps to cultivate a positive mindset. 

EXERCISING MORE 

                           

Whether it’s a aerobics or yoga,exercise has become a feature in many households. Fitness experts say sticking to a regular workout routine is the hardest part of any exercise plan,and the lockdown has helped many people to develop a fitness habit. 



GETTING INTO GARDENING 

                     

Indoor or outdoor – the garden has become a sanctuary for many around the world. There’s evidence to suggest gardening reduces the risk of a stroke or a heart attack and helps to release endorphins which lift the mood and ease depression.

CHATTING WITH NEIGHBOURS

                                          

Community is key as we pull together to defeat the virus and look after each other, and there’s a reason this feels good. Evidence shows doing something nice,like checking in on neighbours, gives us a sense of belonging and reduces isolation. When we are kind and help others it promotes physiological changes in the brain linked to happiness, leading to a more positive outlook.


KEEPING DOWNTIME

                                    

 Once packed schedules have emptied, leaving us some much-needed room to breathe. This is not a bad thing. Evidence suggests that when we set boundaries and allow some space in the diary, we give ourselves the freedom to make the right choices and decisions.With less distractions and people vying for our time, we’re able to think clearly and perform at our best. 

DOING NOTHING 

                                            

Switching off and doing nothing might be considered idle by some,but research shows that it is actually essential for mental health and creativity. Studies into boredom reveal it triggers creativity, as the mind finds new ways to generate interest and excitement.So doing nothing at all, even for a few minutes every day, stimulates the brain.