How we are all affected and what we can do within our communities and at home

This month has caused a lot of panic and uncertainty all around the world and right now and with social distancing and self-isolation we have to think about our mental health, and our physical health.

As someone who struggles with anxiety I am not taking all the changes well, with uncertainty with jobs, education and how long before we can return to somewhat normal. Our world will change, that is certain. Our economies will take a hit; I know here in Victoria many of our merchants rely on tourism for at least 50% of their business, so what can we do to help them?

Well maybe lets look at buying from the little guys before we buy from the bigger companies, supporting our local businesses helps to keep people within our communities employed and many businesses are making alternative ways for you to shop should you chose to. Some are offering curb-side pick ups, online orders and keeping a safe distance from customers should you chose to visit them in store.

Within Victoria some of my favourite local businesses include: Bernstein & Gold, Violette Boutique, Amelia Lee, Migration Boutique, Nicholas Randall Oak Bay.

What can we do at home?

Well one of the most important things I find relates to last weeks post of doing self-care: i.e.; reading a book, having a long bath, doing a face mask or more. Sometimes it may include taking a break from technology. As some of us may be spending more time indoors we may rely more on streaming services like Netflix or Crave and spending most of our time on social media, but it's also important to take a break from that.

You can do things like read a book, play a board game with your family if your loved ones are at home with you, do a work out like yoga, which I find is really calming for myself. If you are someone who is artistic you can take some time to paint or draw, but it gives you the break that you may need.

Take time to be in the moment is one of the most important things for me, as when I start to think of the future and the way I look at the worst case scenario I start to feel as though I am having a anxiety attack and I cannot cope with it.

If you are home by yourself keeping in communication with your friends and family via Facebook, text, or other forms of technology can be very helpful during stressful times.

Please note that these are all my own opinions and this is not an advertisement.