Unfortunately, there is no escaping COVID-19 (coronavirus) right now: most of the world has gone into lockdown, with strict border restrictions and government-led policies in place imposing self-isolation.
Bali is no different: as of 29/03/2020, the ‘Island of the Gods’ has reported nine cases of people infected with coronavirus, two of those people have died – although this is likely to be inaccurate, as only a small number of patients have been tested in Jakarta, with the Indonesia government yet to release specific locations related to the countries confirmed cases.
So if you are currently in Bali the best thing to do right now? Stay home and help stop the spread of coronavirus. Yet with some local businesses closed, a disrupted gym routine and no beachside chilling allowed, being on lockdown can easily take a toll on your wellbeing.
Follow our top tips to make sure you stay sane in self-isolation and look after your mental health- at times like this, it is more important than ever!
Keep active
Ok, so you might not be able to attend that group yoga class or get a workout in at your fav gym but that doesn’t mean you can’t keep up a fitness routine- you just need to change it up a bit.
Now is a great time to utilise your immediate space and get some exercise in. Got a pool? Get in there and do some lengths! Or why not sign up to an at-home workout video? Many fitness gurus are offering discounts due to coronavirus, so it is a great time to mix up your exercise and try something new.
We particularly love the ‘Body by Simone’ app- which provides a customized workout and nutrition program based on your specific goals. Brought to you by renowned fitness trainer Simone De La Rue (a celeb fav) her subscription package is currently up to 40% off. ‘Ballet Beautiful’ (FYI the ballerina who got Natalie Portman into shape for Black Swan) and ‘Fit-sphere’ by Liv Lo are also fab options depending on your workout preference.
And if your gym is still open? Really consider whether you need to go. Crossfit has announced their gyms are closed today (Sunday 29th) for deep cleaning and will reopen on Monday. Yet they remind customers to stay at home if they are not feeling well and encourage them to tune into their IG stories for workout ideas you can do at home whilst self-isolating.
Take up a new hobby
With tons of extra time on your hands, now is the perfect time to try something new that you have been meaning to do- that language you have always wanted to learn? That self help book you want to read? That recipe you haven’t had a chance to try out? Now is the time to do it! Keeping our brains stimulated in times of isolated is so important. Try to see the extra time as a gift- a chance for you to put yourself first and do something that satisfies the soul.
Make time for relaxation
So, unfortunately, you aren’t going to be able to get your 24k facial right now, a daily massage or general glow up at AMO- BUT it is still essential to take time and relax. It is an unsettling time right now, so try to only read reputable news sources, limit your social media usage and be kind to others.
If COVID-19 (coronavirus) is making you feel anxious, try colouring or journaling. To relax, have a bath, do an indoor face mask or mediate- all these activities help calm and clear the brain of negative thoughts and focus on the present. Having as much clarity as possible right now will also help you deal with any unexpected developments.
Missing your squad? Video call!
Whilst it’s advised to limit your time reading/scrolling through social media, technology can be utilised positively during coronavirus. Missing your weekly catch up at Crate? Why not Face Time or Skype your besties instead? Just because you can’t physically see them doesn’t mean you can’t get updates and have a virtual party! Pick up the phone and call that person you are missing- chances are they are missing you too and the power of a chat should never be underestimated.
Equally, if you or a loved one are due to celebrate a birthday or special occasion during self-isolation, why not organise a Skype session with games and activities to keep you entertained? Remember everyone is in the same position and we are all in this together- whilst you can’t hug or have contact with others you can remain sociable and present.
Stick to a healthy diet
It can be tempting in times of turmoil to reach for the comfort food- whilst this may make you feel better in the short term, it’s much better to continue a healthy diet as much as possible. Not only are you feeding your brain and protecting your mental health, but you are also keeping your immune system strong. Although boosting your immune system can’t prevent you catching this contagious and serious viral infection, there are several nutrients, vitamins and minerals required to support the normal functioning of your immune system, so it is a good idea to make sure these are included in your diet.
These range from Vitamin D (make sure to get outside in the safe facility of your isolation bubble!) Zinc, (beans & pulses) B vitamins ( dark leafy veg) and Omega 3 (nuts and seeds.) You can find plenty of healthy recipes online designed to support the immune system, so why not take the time too perfect a few? You will be the perfect dinner party host when this is all over!
A disaster in the kitchen? GoJek to the rescue! Much better to order food in than attempt to eat out right now.
Make a gratitude list
Those things we took for granted before coronavirus came along and impacted all our lives? Write them down. Maybe it is something as simple as going for a coffee in Canggu, watching the sunset or the beach or being able to kiss a friend on the cheek. Or maybe you have had travel plans disrupted or have found yourself stuck in Bali unable to get home? Whatever it is, writing it down helps unload it from your brain and gives you something to focus on.
When life returns to normal you will appreciate those things on your list you took for granted before. And who knows, it may make you a more compassionate and understanding person when situations don’t go as planned in the future.
Stay positive
A simple yet important tip- the power of positivity. This won’t last forever, it WILL get better and life will get back to a version of normality. Unfortunately, right now no one knows when, and it is likely it will get worse before it gets better. Mentally prepare yourself for this, but focusing on the bigger picture and accepting our routines will need to change for the time being will help you get through isolation.
Stay inside
Not just for your safety but for the safety of others. We all have a social responsibility to slow the spread of the virus, follow government advice and help save lives. The sooner we do this, the sooner we can beat COVID-19 (coronavirus).
And it goes without saying keep washing those hands!
Stay safe – we will get through this.
What are you doing to keep busy during self-isolation in Bali? We would love to hear from you!