When the country locked down in March, no-one could have predicted that we’d be welcoming in 2021 back in lockdown (now known as tier 4!). In March, the weather was kind, the days were long and despite the uncertainties many of us appreciated a different way of life. Acts of neighbourliness, baking banana bread and going for long walks became the ‘new normal’.
Now, many of us are facing the New Year with a feeling of ‘lockdown fatigue’. Many have lost loved ones as well as livelihoods. Daylight hours are short, the weather seems to be permanently grey and even nature appears to be in hibernation. Unsurprisingly, the future, even with the promise of a COVID vaccination can feel bleak and uncertain.
Following tier 4 rules means we are pretty much confined to our own homes with just our immediate family (or if we’re lucky, a pet or two) for company. This is at a time when most of us are starting to feel the impact of the past twelve months on our mental health.
I am not trying to promise that taking a yoga or Pilates class will completely dispel the gloom, but regular practice will improve your sense of wellbeing. For 50 minutes you will be in the company (safely) of like-minded people. You will be able to lose yourself in the deepening of your breath and focus on movement. Whether you are completely new or a seasoned practitioner, you will always feel better after a class than before.
Even the discipline of booking a class and needing to be on your mat at a specific time can help give structure to your day. Feeling in control of your body, when everything else seems outside our control, will help build your strength and resilience.
So how about making a New Year’s resolution to be kind to yourself? Even if it’s just for 50 minutes a day.
Wishing you all a safe New Year and hope to see you on the mat.
Jo
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