The Key to Positivity
With all the tragic things that are happening in the world as a result of the coronavirus, now might seem like an unusual time to talk about being positive. Yet staying positive is a core ingredient in the recipe of successful coping in a crisis.
Now, more than ever is the time for us to be proactive about creating small moments of happiness in our days
There are a few practical things you can do to foster positive emotions, elevate your mood and make you feel calm;
- Savour the small moments: Even during this lockdown you still have many small moments to savour. The smell of coffee, the feel of the sun on your skin, the sound of children’s laughter
- Strengthen your connections. For those of us in family lockdown, now is the opportunity to spend quality time with our loved ones. Take the time to hug your kids or partner, look them in the eyes, have long conversations with them
- Look for the good in others. These types of crises can bring out both the worst and the best in human nature.
In these extraordinary & uncertain times, one thing that we have seen all over the world is that kindness is prevailing.
People are coming together! Whether that be setting up groups to offer support to the elderly or vulnerable. Having virtual calls & even creating choreographed dances over video chat to share with the world.
We have learnt that amid the fear, there is also community, support and hope
Working as we do here at Spirit & Grace, we have been blessed with seeing this kindness firsthand.
From grandparents to best friends, mums to grandchildren! The gifts that are being ordered and the kind messages that are being sent out are truly heartwarming. It doesn’t matter if you’ve been apart for a couple of weeks or if you’re cooped up together 24/7! Life in a lockdown can be tough on any relationship and you want them to know you care!
Nothing is bound to put a smile on someone’s face than a little surprise through the post. Let them know you are thinking of them. Send them a little pick-me-up pressie through the post or send best wishes the old-school way with a hand-written letter.
It is more important than ever to keep in contact with loved ones during these unusual times.
Although it may feel like time has stood still since we went into lockdown, the earth is still turning. Life goes on no matter how many countries are locked down! People still age, and birthdays can’t just be put on hold.
Spirit & Grace have a wide variety of items which make excellent presents. We can post these directly to your loved ones within the UK.
Whether you are looking for a birthday gift, or just a pick me up, we have something for everyone.
We can also add a personalised note adding that extra special element.
Take a look at our site to find hundreds of fantastic ideas. Buying online means you can still Stay Safe! Let your loved ones know you are thinking of them and “Support Small Business” during Lockdown.
Of course, there are plenty of other ways to keep yourself entertained at home too, to avoid the incessant ‘groundhog day’ and you can share the pictures with your loved ones! Here are a few that we have done at home…
Dress up!
Look in your wardrobe & have some fun! You can Marie Kondo your clothes, but it’s also a chance to explore your style. I’ve been wearing outfits that, before this, I would have felt uncomfortable to wear in public. I’ve untucked the lavish dresses I have crammed into the back of my wardrobe and getting to wear them feels fun. I expect everyone could use a bit of fun at the moment.
Even if it stresses you out and you end up wanting to burn all your clothes, at least you’ve spent five hours of your lockdown time doing something relatively productive. It will also ensure you have plenty of looks prepped for when we do step outside again.
If you’re celebrating something, why not put on your favourite dress, throw on a little makeup and do your hair for date night? Even if it’s over Facetime or Zoom, it’s fun to get dressed up and act like you’re out for drinks at your favourite bar with your best mates.
Or if you are Amanda Holden, pop on your posh frock just to take the bins out!
Recreate your favourite memories!
If you’re feeling stuck in a quarantine rut, why not make things a little fun by recreating your favourite memories together. It could be recreating your favourite beach holiday out in your garden, mixing up your favourite cocktails from your last date night out, or having a themed evening based on your favourite city break. The options are endless!
We had a great Spanish themed night last week and it created a great atmosphere and memories that will last a lifetime!
Make a modern mixtape!
OK, we’re taking a retro idea – the classic cassette mixtape – and putting a modern twist on it for this one. So why not create an uplifting playlist for you & anyone you are quarantined with to listen to during lockdown?
We popped a post on our Facebook page recently asking for suggestions and now have a great playlist to listen too…pop over & have a look at some of the tunes!
Practice #selfcare
Never underestimate the power of a bubble bath – especially one that involves flickering candles, a slice of cake and a big glass of wine. Or if face masks, body scrubs and mani-pedis are more your thing, then get busy primping and preening in that department too. Whatever makes you feel good right now, take time to do it.
It is almost impossible to know exactly what the future looks like! But take advantage of this time at home with your loved ones & connect!
Try not to obsess over things; What will happen next? Will the supermarket shelves be restocked soon? How long am I going to be trapped in the house? When will this all end?
Instead, try to focus your mind on more positive things. For example, despite Italy being one of the worst affected countries by coronavirus, Italians were heard singing from their windows/balconies to boost morale. Even in the darkest of times, we must try to find a flicker of light at the end of the tunnel.
Oh….and here is a little dance my family & I put together to entertain you!
Stay safe & sane everyone Xx
