We wish everyone reading this page creativity in finding ways to meaningfully connect during the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic! We wish you to find inner strength and resilience…and we wish you to truly come to enjoy solitude. We wish for our “bubbles” to thrive…bringing out the best in yourselves and in each other.
We want all this for you as well as to feel part of the greater whole of what we are all doing for each other and our family, friends and whānau….literally saving lives.
We are strong believers that each one of us is unique in personality, circumstance and need; and yet we have our humanness in common. So what we are considering are good principles to keep you physically and mentally well – both of which reduce loneliness.
So in this context, we are aiming for you to find solitude when you are on your own; and be connecting meaningfully when you are seeking people (in person, and leveraging technology).
Develop an indoors routine, a combination of familiarity, flexibility, mindfulness, movement and creativity. Every day create balance taking these factors into account.
We encourage you to get fresh air by opening windows in your home… and going outside on your property.
When you are outside (2m apart) on your property or going beyond for essentials make the most of your time: by creating meaningful connections; stretching all your muscles; looking for beauty; being positive.
We will continue to write articles on how to practically achieve these. In the meantime pick a few ideas from the section below to add into today.
Phone and video call family and friends. Natter with your neighbours across the fence - remember to stay separated.
Staying positive will help you avoid loneliness. You’re isolating for all of us and saving the lives of people we love. Thank you!
As much as you enjoy time together, be mindful that some of your household may need time on their own too.
Lonely people often focus inwards. To focus outwards, express appreciation to those supporting you, including strangers, neighbours, family, and friends.
Avoid dwelling on negative situations you have no control over, and turn your attention to what you are doing to help the situation.
Kiwis are well-known for their creativity and now more than ever, it’s our time to shine. Find ways to make familiar routines and activities fit your new lifestyle.
Balance your conversations – each of you take turns listening carefully to each other and acknowledging the feelings behind what is being shared.
Solitude is quality time for yourself. Use your time to plan positive changes to your life… and make whatever start you can from your home.
Pick an activity that you haven’t had time to do. You could read, clean those cupboards, sort out your photos, clear the garden … and then celebrate!
Lonely people often dwell on what they are not able to change. Instead, surround yourself with humour, positive people, and feel-good stories.
Nothing about our world is familiar to anyone. So have reasonable expectations of people and processes.
Your feelings of disappointment and frustration are real. Acknowledge them out loud and then move onto happier thoughts and conversation.
Let someone talk to you about how they are feeling; making your discussion about them and not about you.
Whether you are on your own, or with people, smile at any opportunity. Simply changing your face to a smile is uplifting.
Before chores become a source of friction, contribute willingly to the daily household needs.
Use alone time as a special opportunity to reflect, dream, and plan.
Our situations are unique. Everyone has their own stories, and their own pace of processing what’s happening.
Social media posts and sharing memes can help pass the time. However, to avoid loneliness we need meaningful conservations - so make use of phone and video calls
We can get so absorbed on our mobile devices, laptops and television. Make quality time for others – who will appreciate it.
Ask your family to give you space in your home for an hour or two. Then re-join them with your full attention.
We are all in this together. Yes, your life has been turned upside down - but so have others. Understand how they are feeling.
Instead of typing messages, have chatty conversations, which make each of you less lonely.
Plan your days and your space to provide balance between connecting, time on your own, activity and exercise.
To avoid loneliness we need to be kind to ourselves and others. Do something that gives pleasure to you and your loved ones.
For resources to prevent loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit COVID-19 loneliness resources.