We’ve seen plenty of tweets in the past week about people never ever wanting to hear the word “unprecedented” again. It has crept into the first line of our emails and blog posts from around the globe, but the thing is, these times are unprecedented. And that means that taking just that bit extra care of our mental health.
As part of #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek (18-24 May), we’re sharing what we’re all doing right now to be kind to our minds.
Max – Product Manager
“I write a Reflections Diary. I’ll crack open a blank text document and start freestyle-writing my thoughts, feelings, things I have to do (anything really). It helps filter and project the thoughts in my brain out in front of me and start dissecting and prioritising them. Are there worries that I can’t do anything about? Are there tasks that are more urgent than others?”
Martin – Infrastructure Developer
“Finding the time in my day to exercise at home is one of the main ways I’m trying to improve my mental health during lockdown.”
Alexandra Fearon – Digital Strategist
“Like the rest of the world, I’m finding a lot of solace in Yoga with Adriene. Some practices are full-on workouts, whilst others are mostly just lying down doing deep breathing – which given how much my mood changes from day to day at the minute, is perfect.
My favourite practice right now: Yoga For The Future.”
Brad French – Fundraising Innovation Manager
“To look after my mental health I am starting each day by exercising. It helps me to wake up and makes me feel like I’ve achieved something before I’ve even had my breakfast!”
Samantha Lade – Project Manager
“I can’t imagine what lockdown would have looked like without running. It’s given me a structure to both my day and my week, and it’s helping to keep me active. I also like to go before work, making sure I listen to some awesome strong women playlists (Beyonce, Little Mix, Destiny’s Child) to help me feel ready to take on the day!”
Callum Patterson – Relationship Manager
“My wife and I recently bought our first home, having rented for a number of years, so we’re trying to make the most of the lockdown by using the time at home to get some DIY done! We’ve been gardening, painting spare rooms and putting up pictures – not only does it pass the time but it also gives us a real sense of pride and satisfaction when we finish each little project.”
Samantha Morris – Head of Partnerships
“Workwise I’ve made sure my workspace is peaceful and tidy — I’ve even added a diffuser and nice light. Our team has also made a very conscious effort to be open and honest about how we’re really feeling on a particular day, which has made a huge difference. Outside of work, exercise and nature helps some days and good food and friends (via a Zoom call or now a socially distant walk) help on others. But above all, I’m trying to be kind to myself and others and know there is no perfect way to navigate this because we’ve never been here before. Oh, and LOADS of Charlie Mackesy quotes!
