Ebb and Flow

These last few months have been full ups and downs for many of us. We all know it's crucial to check in with ourselves; it's vital to acknowledge the hard moments rather than to suppress them, just as much as it's important to make time for the things that lift us up.

Down Times

The down days might be because we still have to socially distance from loved-ones who are not in our household or bubble. Although we can see our family and friends, if we don't qualify to form a bubble, we are still not allowed to hug them. In many cases, a grandchild may still not hold their grandparent's hand.

As this situation continues indefinitely, we are having to make tough decisions every day to weigh up the risks between surviving and living.

Wellbeing Hacks

Despite acknowledging these low times, we can continue to use the tools available to us to help our states of mind. Over the last few months, I have done the following to aid my mental health:

Edited a Novel

I was recently asked to edit a ten-thousand-word children's novel. This task inspired me to pick up my own book that I began before my daughter was born. During her little life so far, I have only managed to write small articles or blogs and to take on some proofreading work. The prospect of tackling a whole novel has been overwhelming and, up until now, I've felt it has not been in my capacity to get my head around during small snippets of time. However, editing this wonderful children's book has motivated me. I've broken down my manuscript into manageable chunks and am now carrying out a structural edit. I am grateful for the opportunity to have edited that book. It came along at the right time. I finally feel like I have a part of me back again.

Completed a TESOL Course

During the lockdown, I completed an online course in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. I have always loved working with children and have wanted to teach. Here is a way that I can work online and combine my passion for the English language with my love of working with children. I know I may not be able to start this until my daughter is a little older, but I have completed the qualification and I know I will teach.

Discovered Montessori

I recently completed a course in Montessori. Continuing with my love of children, the Montessori method has opened my eyes to alternative views on helping children learn. These tools will help me to encourage my daughter to grow and develop her independence.

Visited the Zoo

We had a wonderful birthday celebration with my daughter. Our trip to Paignton Zoo boosted our moods and helped us feel a snippet of normality. There may not have been a birthday party and there may not have been hugs or rough play, but it meant so much that our family staggered visits over a weekend to show her she was loved.

What are you doing to check in with yourself? Are you voicing your concerns in a healthy way - and have you discovered your own methods for taking care of your wellbeing?