Lockdown.

A tiny word that has quite literally rocked our world.

We're in lockdown in Sydney and continue to be as this pandemic surges forward.

Our routines of work, life, play, family and adventure have changed drastically. Although I can't compare my feelings to those of a front-line worker, doctor, or nurse, this has been an interesting way to learn not to take my life for granted.'

It seems now that not only was 'normal life' perfect, but it was also bloody glorious.

What of hot coffees in the mornings and chats with baristas, going to a co-working space in the city to be surrounded by some kickass, intelligent entrepreneurs and then discussing the state of your work and business with them, with no 1.5m boundaries between us?

I get nostalgic about past afternoon walks in the CBD or Darling Square. It didn't matter where I sat or how long I stayed there; the air was fresh and virus-free, and I didn't even know how magnificent that was.

I sat in churches, chapels and prayer rooms, surrounded by others. I can't forget that peace.

Whether it was a trip to the movies, date night for the hubby and me, a weekend away in regional NSW or a quick flight to the other end of the country, the sense of freedom and choice we have is a gift and a privilege that I'll not be taking for granted anytime soon.

This extended time indoors isn't something I got used to quickly.
When we locked down in 2020, the first few weeks were pure hell, and this time around, in 2021, I've tried to make it better by putting a few things in place:

1. Morning Routines and Creating spaces:

I know - everyone's talking about morning routines and how this turns into a part of 'being successful' - get on TikTok if you don't know what I'm talking about.

Morning routines or even an afternoon routine is one of the best things to do to keep you grounded and moving steadily. The effect on both my mental and spiritual state cannot be underestimated, and I'd highly recommend this if you haven't tried it out yet. It can be a mix of movement and writing, prayer or meditation and then some reading with a hot cup of tea. Whatever this looks like for you, know that 20 minutes of a grounding routine can make a huge difference and set you to be more in 'flow' and feel better about yourself and your space.

Creating spaces: We live in a one-bedroom apartment in the city, and it's spacious and light; however, my workspace currently is in the bedroom, and my sweet love Josh works in the living room. I need to separate where things get done, so if I have to read or listen to a podcast, I'll quickly pop over to the balcony. Breaks happen over our coffee table, piano playing and listening to classical music has its spot - and of course, I have a little place where I do yoga. All these things are far from my desk, and when I'm here, I don't think about work, talk about work or worry about work, and when I end up showing up at my desk? My mind is fresh and ready to get into it.

2. Outdoor time:

Meditation is great, but have you tried walking a couple of miles? I try to take a different route these days, or it ends up getting very repetitive…but in any case, I feel grateful to have the chance to go out still and get exercise.

One thing I've seen people do outside is getting their yoga or Pilates mats and exercising right there. I might try this one of these days.

3. Catch ups with friends.

One of the things I try to make an effort is video calls or just phone calls with friends. It might sometimes feel that everyone is just getting on with their lives, but mostly they feel the same way about you! Send that message and check-in. Most people have been going through a tough time, and although it might seem out of place to be in touch, especially if you've not done this in the longest time? Trust me; it's always a good idea.

Chatting with Linn, a friend I made in 2005 - at the University of Notre Dame, during our first year studying Media.

4. The Inner Work

One of the greatest gifts this lockdown has given us is time.

The inner work and discoveries that come with reflection are just amazing. By inner work, I mean thinking about the kind of person I’d like to be in the world, the changes I’d like to see, how I handle certain situations, how I deal with change and pressure, how I pivot when things don’t work anymore or how I respond to the call to play bigger - in my mind. We become used to thinking of ourselves in specific ways, and this lockdown has somehow propelled me to question my self-perception. Who Am I being, and how does this affect how I show up in the world?

If you’re reading this, I’d love to hear from you. How have you been this lockdown? How have you changed?

Until next time,

Big Love x