Every January, many people make resolutions to start the year with more energy, but in many cases, these are forgotten quite quickly. 2021 is probably the year people have placed the most hope in, so perhaps it is time to be consistent with those intentions to start the year and fulfill the goals that help us to hold onto better mental health.
The year 2020 represented a shocking change in our lives. The isolation produced much anguish that has had to be channeled in different ways. Isolation and confinement have affected many people’s mental health, so it has become essential to find activities that connect us with nature in some way.
The phases of quarantine around the world are constantly changing. Some are more restrictive than others, depending on the number of cases of contagion and the measures taken by each government. Many people have returned to their jobs, but others continue to work from home. The options for recreation in public have also been reduced.
One thing that isolation has taught us is the need to restructure our routines, adapting activities that fill us up and keep us positive. Distraction is the key, but not in a form that takes people away from reality. Instead, we need one that helps us stay in touch with ourselves, with nature, or with other people.
Everyone is unique, thus, while some individuals have coped quite well with limited contact with society, for others it has been challenging; while some have adapted to new routines from home, for others not going out every day was difficult for their mental health.
Although activities with large crowds are restricted in many places, there are outdoor opportunities, individually or in small groups, that can help clear the mind and improve wellbeing.
Some of my friends have decided to use their bikes again, in order to avoid public transportation and the crowds that are associated with it. A few have ventured onto mountain routes with small groups so that they can stimulate their bodies and be in contact with nature.
Walking and running are also excellent options. A half hour a day outdoors can generate an impressive transformation in attitude, because it allows the mind to relax and take a break from routines. My mom had to buy a stationary bike during the radical quarantine; later, during the more flexible periods, she decided to walk in areas near her apartment, where her only companions are a few cows.
For her, exercise is essential to keep her knees active, but for everyone it should be a priority and more these days. Therefore, when it is impossible to go out, look for options! One of my friends found a solution, she practices yoga on her terrace. The open sky allows her to breathe consciously, free her head and leave the four walls that have become daily life for many.
For me, my rooftop has become a nighttime picnic area for stargazing. Sometimes the sky is not clear enough, but a bit of music and imagination helps me to enjoy those hours before sleeping.
Gardening has also been an escape route for many people. This season, my dad was more dedicated to the plants in his backyard, including some fruit trees that made him more aware of the growing process. But space shouldn’t be a barrier; people who don’t have a large garden can adapt other places or dedicate themselves to smaller, easy-care plants.
My grandmother has been caring for an area of her building’s garden for years. It is important for her to dedicate a part of her day to her flowers so she is able to sunbathe and be distracted. For my part, after being a pet-only person, I adopted my first plant this year and I must admit that the novelty has helped me and I like it.
The most important thing is to find activities that relieve us of our responsibilities and allow us to enjoy life. There are many options that help us to have a clear mind, preserve our mental health and at the same time protect us. It is essential to remember that we must follow the protocols to stay healthy and take care of the people around us.
Image credit: Goumbik