Why alone-time is still important, even during a lockdown

Just because you’re on lockdown with your family doesn’t mean you have to be around them 24/7

Do you ever feel like everything is getting a bit… too much?

Stressful news about Covid-19 aside, our world has been turned completely on its head. Thousands of jobs have been lost and salaries have been cut. Those of us lucky enough to hold onto our jobs are attempting to do so from home, all the while keeping children entertained, educated and fed.

Our usual escapes have been taken away from us too. No gym, no cinema, no browsing the shops, no drinks at the pub and no walking further than 2 km from home. It’s easy to feel trapped and overwhelmed by it all.

And that’s okay.

It’s hard enough when one aspect of your life changes, but when everything is suddenly different? It’s okay to take a step back. It’s okay to close a door on the chaos and have some time to yourself. There comes a time in life when everyone needs a break, and that time is now.

Escape it all

We’re not talking about a holiday (because let’s face it, that’s off the cards for the foreseeable), but just getting time alone at home.

According to clinical psychologists Linda Weinberger and Shoba Sreenivasan, solitude is an opportunity for self-reflection. In their article for Psychology Today, they say ‘me-time’ promotes self-healing, creativity and spiritual growth.

Solitude also helps us to understand (and figure out) our problems more easily, which means we can better handle challenges day-to-day.

Something as simple as an extra-long bubble bath, followed by reading alone in your room, can give your mind space and perspective. Perhaps you’d rather go for a solitary walk to clear your mind, or watch a Netflix series without someone interrupting every two minutes (headphones optional though recommended).

The world is topsy-turvy enough without you feeling pressured into 24/7 family time (besides, they probably need time to themselves too). For your sanity (and for clarity), take the much-needed break you deserve.

Feature photo: Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

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