Surviving the Lockdown Through Acceptance

For many of us, the pandemic has been a worrisome time of isolation, financial strain, decreased connection, and a variety of other stressors. News of the lockdown this week can bring a sense of frustration, anxiety, or even anger as those in authority place the province under further restrictions. This leads many to comment on the fairness of these restrictions and leads to lively debates on social media about the politicians involved. For many, all this discussion only leads to further distress and suffering.

Pain is an unavoidable part of life, but this does not mean you have to suffer. By accepting the pain and distress, you can actually decrease the amount of suffering you experience. This acceptance does not mean that you must approve of all that is taking place, it simply means that you acknowledge that this is currently your reality. It means that, instead of fighting a reality that you cannot control or change, you accept it for what it is, freeing up your energy to focus on more constructive things. Fighting against reality can be exhausting and typically does not accomplish anything.

The process of acceptance takes time, but in the end, you will be more capable of enduring this period of lockdown, and potentially even find benefits from it. Once you are able to achieve acceptance, use the energy you gain to invest it in assisting others, personal growth, or some other positive pursuit. Here are some ideas that may be helpful.

1. Practice living mindfully, getting the most out of each moment you find yourself in.

2. Create a healthy routine and try to maintain it.

3. Spend time being active outdoors.

4. Stay in touch with others by phone and through technology.

5. Use this opportunity to learn a new hobby or skill, or to restart an old one.

6. Find a creative outlet, anything from writing to renovations.

7. Spend quality time with those in your circle.

8. Be grateful and appreciative, scanning your environment for the positives rather than the negatives.

9. Manage your anxieties and fears by openly processing them with a trusted friend or family member.

10. Reach out for professional help when required.