Take care, be kind to yourself

Words by Liam Stretch. Image by Java Katzur.

With the announcement of an extended lockdown throughout Aotearoa, it is more important than ever to be looking out for others and yourself. So, the team at Yo Vocal have put together some tips and tricks to make sure you stay both physically and mentally well throughout this process.

A Zoom Yoga Session

Yoga by Kotte – run by Kotte Aguilar alongside Dr Victoria Catherwood – will present a free session via the digital platform, 12-1pm daily. Meeting room: 82708544307. Passcode: 512500.

Get Vitamin C and D 

Luckily the weather throughout the country has been settled so far, and with that comes some sun. Get out and get some Vitamin D – great for regulating your mood – and also with this late winter sun comes ripe citrus fruit. Have an orange, mandarin, grapefruit, or lemon – you might even be able to forage some! Citrus fruits are a great source of Vitamin C, keeping your immune system in tip-top shape.

Put on a face mask

Although you should be wearing a mask when possible while out and about and at the supermarket, I’m referencing the other type here – that of the detoxifying and complexion brightening type. Though much may not have changed in your personal circumstance, take time for self-care. It may be harder to achieve because your workplace and rest space could now be one. If you don’t have a mask on hand, check out this link for a few options – they’re all vegan too! Otherwise, Glow Lab has a $2.50 one available at supermarkets.

Play strategy games 

It’s very easy to get into boredom and for our brains to feel unstimulated – often leaving us feeling down – but a good game of Scrabble, Monopoly or even a crossword will keep you sharp as a tack. Click on this link for a daily crossword. 

Get into a park and pick flowers

We are allowed to exercise locally, and honestly, we couldn’t have had a better time of the year to do so. Throughout New Zealand, spring flowers are popping up, particularly daffodils. Bring some home with you to light up your living space.

Make sure you talk to your friends and family!

Jump on Zoom or Facetime and make sure you get in some socialisation with people outside of your bubble. Even if it’s for five minutes, give your best mate your cousin, or your friend you haven’t connected with for ages a bell. It’ll refresh your social energy.

If you need further tips or help, visit the Mental Health Foundation’s webpage. https://mentalhealth.org.nz/getting-through-together