Thoughts on Being Isolated
As the impact of the Coronavirus unfolds, the prospect of a town or city or the whole country being shutdown is a real possibility. Everyday news of more deaths are published and stories of how Covid 19 is leaving it’s stamp on communities across the World come to light.
Italy has been hit badly, and as a result Italians are convinced to their homes, only able to leave if in possession of the relevant paperwork to show carabinieri and police carrying out checks or if food or medicine is needed. Otherwise, they are holed up at home, isolated from the outside world but bought together by adversity. In the Western World, in fact in most countries across the world, this kind of isolation is uncommon, it is either a war or natural disaster that creates some kind of restriction within whole communities.
The thought of what is happening is terrifying for so many because whilst statistics show that “common flu” has a much more devastating impact, it is fear of the unknown. It is extremely important to follow the guidance from Public Health England and the NHS. It is crucial not to put others at risk especially if feeling unwell or returning from one of the affected countries.
Remember that there are people who live alone, elderly neighbours, who may need assistance and may already be self-isolating. Check if they need help with anything – shopping or walking the dog.
If the Government decide to impose restrictions on our movements, take the time to take good care of your health, if you are not unwell, exercise or do some form of yoga – there are so many apps and videos available; put energy into to your work if working remotely, remember that even if we are asked to socially distance ourselves, we can all stay connected.
Put in place a daily plan if you are home bound with your family; make the routine a habit so that cabin fever does not set in. Find fun ways to release the boredom – games such as scrabble, monopoly, Cluedo, uno, spring to mind. Keep a journal or a Vlog; remember children need structure, so set up study times, depending on their age; give each other space and room to breathe – not always possible, but if the weather permits pop out into the garden or yard; the temptation to work your way through a box set may be at the top of the list, but remember that there are other alternatives, the books and magazines you never get the chance to read. Learn and grow together – it is a difficult time, but it is important to stay positive and focused.
If you haven’t, take a look at the Italians in Siena and Naples who are singing with each other during what is a very challenging time for them. Something beautiful and quite exceptional.