The key lockdown habits YOU should carry on post-coronavirus pandemic
EXPERTS have spoken out on which lockdown habits UK residents should keep up when measures are eventually lifted in future.
Martin Lewis reveals how to save on energy bills during lockdown
Drastic lifestyle changes have been imposed on much of the country as the coronavirus lockdown continues to bear down. One employment expert said that industries should be less resistant to flexible working in future, as the lockdown has shown that it is possible.
Britons have had to look at new ways of exercising and working from home as guidance – and law enforcement – requires them to stay indoors unless it’s essential not to.
Now, seven experts have told Sky News that some of these habits which involve various aspects of life including mental health, education, entertainment and the environment, should be taken forward when lockdown measures are relaxed.
Research psychologist Mica Montana Gray said that limiting the amount of information taken in could lessen anxieties, and recommends creative habits such as journaling.
She said journaling would be “a great way to monitor your health post-lockdown”.
Regarding education, Chris Dyson, a head teacher at a primary school in Leeds, told Sky News that families should continue to do bonding activities with children such as fingerprint art.
He said that the fewer than 20 children he is currently still needing to teach are doing activities such as gardening and art in school.
And Beth Hale, a partner at employment law firm CM Murray, said a “key” habit to take forward would be flexible working.
“I think we have seen a lot of resistance to home working historically in some industries, and I think this is forcing everyone to go “you know what? It can be done.”
Other useful habits to bring forward include baking, being less “hardcore” about use-by dates, watching more independent films, and supporting the arts.
And one of the most positive changes that many people have picked up on has been the positive impact that lockdown measures have had on the environment.
Footage by the BBC shows Indian capital Delhi virtually smog-free following the shutdown of factories, businesses, airports and traffic, meaning that emissions have dropped.
And the BBC also claims that air pollution levels in the UK have fallen “significantly” since the UK went into lockdown.
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels have reportedly fallen by up to 60 percent in some cities compared to the same period last year.
NO2 is a serious air pollutant released for car exhausts.
Environment campaigner Amy Cameron told Sky News that wildlife has been emboldened by the absence of people, and also called for fewer cars on the road in future.
She said: “I think we’re learning just how much change is possible. I’d love if we could carry that forward into the world we rebuild.”
In an example of wildlife becoming more prominent in the lockdown, the seaside town of Llandudno in Wales made headlines last month after a number of mountain goats were pictured wandering the streets.
Mental health habits have also been prominent. Advice published on patient.info suggests that keeping a routine can be helpful.
Stephen Buckley, head of information at mental health charity Mind told the website: “Being at home might impact your routine which can affect your appetite and when you drink water.
“It can help to create a new routine to make sure you are looking after yourself.”
Exercise can also “significantly” improve one’s mood, the site advises.