We’re all guilty of indulging in too much screen time during lockdown. Ironically, too much blue light and time in front of our screens only serves to exacerbate our anxiety and according to studies on screen time and sleep, screentime before bedtime may leave people feeling groggy in the morning. Cell phones, computers and TVs emit blue light, and exposure to that light during the two hours before bed can keep us from getting a good night’s rest.
Many experts suggest that quality sleep is as important to your health and well-being as good nutrition and exercise. Poor sleep has been linked to many medical conditions including cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and even obesity! In essence, lockdown screen bringing syndrome has negatively impacted our overall wellbeing and quality of life.
All is not lost. Our grandparents were generally more disciplined than we are and it’s time we heeded their advice, and use this prolonged period of hibernation to inculcate some healthy routines and habits.
Here are some simple steps to get you back on track:
Practice sleep hygiene
Adequate sleep is a key part of a healthy lifestyle, and can benefit your heart, weight and mind. It spurs the creative process, reduces fatigue and increases stamina. A variety of different practices and habits will contribute to having good nighttime sleep quality and full daytime alertness.
Limit daytime naps to 30 minutes (yes, even during lockdown!)
Avoid stimulants such as caffeine (and nicotine if you still have any at this stage!) for about two hours before bedtime
Exercise promotes good sleep, but try to avoid doing it just before your nighttime routine. As little as 10 minutes a day will help so stop making excuses.
Get outside and get some natural light. Exposure to sunlight helps regulate our natural body clocks.
Make your sleep environment pleasant. Yes, rip those sheets off once a week at least and change pillowcases more often if possible. Air your bedroom and change your pyjamas (it’s no secret that you wear them all day!). Follow our FB pages for cleaning tips if you like cleaning hacks.
Brush daily
Clean fresh breath is good for business – even at home. If you’re alone, it’s about hygiene more than anything but if you share your space, be considerate and be an example of good clean living. It is one of those simple things that just make you feel better.
If you have bad breath, review your oral hygiene habits. Try making lifestyle changes, such as brushing your teeth and tongue after eating, using dental floss, and drinking plenty of water.
Clean your face
Invest in a good cleanser and wash your face morning and night. This one is not just for the ladies but ladies, make sure you remove your make-up properly to maintain that youthful glow.
Teach teens to do the cleanse, tone , moisturise routine while you have time together.
Bath or shower on a daily basis
Your grandparents were right. Discipline and routine matter. Maintain regular daily baths to keep clean. You’ll feel better and it will contribute to your health and wellbeing.
Make sure your towels are clean and fresh and use deodorant after your bath or shower.
Be mindful of your water usage – water is a scarce resource. Keep a bucket in the shower to collect water and flush the loo with it. This simple trick will make you feel better about doing something positive and will help save money and water while you contribute to saving the planet.
Wash your clothing
Realistically, ironing is probably taking a backseat during lockdown but the basics still need to get done and that includes washing your clothes. If you have children, take some time to teach them how to separate clothes for washing and how to wash clothes in a washing machine.
Make the effort to clean your clothes properly. Find out how to treat stains like sweaty underarm patches and soiled collars. Fold clothing carefully and store it in an organised manner.
Wash your hands
If you’re not practicing good hand hygiene by now you are probably beyond the point of no return! With all the COVID-19 safety tips for hand washing out there, you don’t need us to tell you again.
These are the basics and they’re a pretty good place to start. You’ll need to get back into your regular routine soon enough so don’t wallow at home, start your journey on the road to wellness. Keep track of your time, your personal grooming habits, and your fitness for your own good.
