Caravan Quarantine
As published in GoRV, April Edition 2020
In a world that feels like the plot of a Hollywood movie, it’s time to pause, take stock and remind ourselves to be thankful for the things we can control.
Over the last month Paul and I have taken turns in having up and down emotionally fuelled days, as each new restriction came into play and squeezed us towards making a decision that neither of us were certain about. As a full time travelling family, with no fixed address or “home to go back to” we found ourselves (and others in the same situation) the subject of much debate… just where do we go when our home is on wheels and we are being told to go “home”?
As the shutdowns commenced, first national parks, then caravan parks, and finally state borders, we breathed a huge sigh of relief when clarity finally came around who constitutes an essential traveller. And with this news came a lifeline, an offer to park up the van and call home for as long as required. Once we made the decision to bunker down and stay put we were able to collect our thoughts and put some strategies in place to help us manage our mental health, and our 17m2 living environment.
OUR TOP 5 STRATEGIES FOR LOCKDOWN
1. ISO-BREAKERS
When tensions and emotions are rising, take a break and enjoy an iso-breaker to lift the mood. Think quick and fun games for the entire family, craft activities, science experiments, treasure hunts, board games, jigsaw puzzles and so much more.
2. BRAIN FOOD
There’s never been a better time in history to access knowledge and learn. Why not start that course you’ve always dreamt of, pick up a book or listen to an audio book. If you hold a library card, download the Borrow Box and OverDrive apps to access over 30,000 free books, audiobooks, magazines and more.
3. 5-MINUTES OF MINDFULNESS
Just 5 minutes of intentional positive thinking and gratitude a day can make all the difference to how you are feeling and coping. Start and end your day with your “First and Last 5 Minutes” and give thanks for all the good things in your life right now.
4. COOKING
Now is the time to nourish your body and mind with Feel Good food that will make the whole family happy and healthy. Why not try a new recipe or sit down together for a meal and plan that future trip.
5. DAILY EXERCISE
Let’s face it, nothing makes you feel better than exercise, and as a lock down exemption, now is the time to get outside and get that body moving. If you can’t get outdoors, check out some of the great online options available direct to your screen.
Check out our Top 5 Lockdown Strategies video for more details to keep you entertained during isolation.
~ Katie Guerin
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