With the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), many people have been forced to work from home and are choosing to keep their social interactions to a minimum. This can be massively challenging for many, so it’s important to take care of ourselves both physically and mentally.
Make the most of your exercise allowance
Due to the current lockdown and social distancing rules set by the government, we are all allowed to go out for just one form of exercise each day. This could be a walk, run or cycle, so why not make the most of it with Brindley’s beautiful canals?
It’s been proven that taking some time out by the water helps calm our minds and reduce blood pressure. So, if you live nearby, soak in some of Birmingham’s stunning scenery while taking a stroll down one of the tow paths?
Just remember to be mindful of social distancing and always remain at least two metres from others when using the canal paths. And don’t forget to wash your hands as soon as you’re home.
Stretch and relax
It’s just as important to remain mentally healthy as it is physically healthy during this difficult time, and with access to a raft of apps and videos, you can easily turn your home into your sanctuary.
Take in a daily yoga class. With an abundance of classes on Zoom and YouTube get in touch with a local instructor and find your inner zen while supporting a local business. Keep an eye on Brindley’s yoga studio – InterYoga – for their e-classes which are coming soon!
Want something a little more fast paced? Why not join Bannatyne who have teamed up with Les Mills to offer online YouTube workouts you can do from the comfort of your living room.
Just 30 minutes a day of exercise can reduce stress and boost your mood, so whether you are making use of your outside allowance or taking it all on indoors, it is paramount to remember to stay safe and keep practicing social distancing.
Rediscover your love for a good book
Make some time for yourself by turning off all technology and rediscovering books. There are fewer things more powerful than the written word.
It can be a spiritual or self-help book, the autobiography of someone you admire, or a fictional story you can get lost in.
Take some time to learn the rich history of the city we live in – did you know Ikon used to be a school before it was turned into an art gallery? With the Ikon shop being Birmingham’s only specialist art bookshop, browse their online store and find something new and unique to read.
Tune in to a new TV show
If reading isn’t your thing, there’s always TV. Did you know an episode of Brum was filmed in Brindley? And line of Duty and Peaky Blinders were both filmed in Birmingham!
With an extraordinary amount of content available on streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime, you can gather with your family, roommates or significant other and binge one of your favourite shows, or watch a classic movie to help pass the time.
However you decide to pass the time during the COVID-19 outbreak, just remember to keep following government advice and check the World Health Organisation and NHS websites for more information.
