A Wonderful World

                                                Amidst our third lockdown, television can provide a necessary comfort and distraction from the ongoing pandemic. Since Coronavirus initially hit and we entered our first lockdown, television viewing has increased. Of course, when caring for both our physical and mental health during lockdown it's important to consider how much time we're spending in front of our screens to avoid too much of a sedentary lifestyle and unnecessary health detriments, but dedicating some of our day to such a pastime isn't wholly a negative thing when it has also shown positive benefits. Spending a little time watching the newest series or our favourite classics can help us through this challenging time, a support tool in relaxing us, reassuring us during what can be an isolating and overwhelming time, and distracting us for a while from the news and world of Coronavirus. As a Television and Series lover, I've collated some of my favourites over

'Music streaming services rocket over the course of the Coronavirus Pandemic.' Music has been a lifeline for many during the midst of lockdown, a source of continuing a sense of community, togetherness and release throughout such challenging times. Services including Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon have grown in popularity, a space used to create Playlists that are often being titled 'Quarantunes', a home for songs that have helped individuals cope during quarantine. It's not new information that there is power in music. Scientists have found that music can directly influence the way we feel through having an impact on our brain which in turn, releases certain hormones. Listening to music has been found to increase Dopamine levels, (known as the 'happy hormone'), as well as Serotonin which influences our mood and feeling good, and Oxytocin, often referred to as the 'love hormone'. It's even used as a form of therapy as it can help kick-start the

'It's important to hold onto our passions throughout this challenging time.' As we continue through our third lockdown, we're faced with our own hurdles. Whilst it's important to stay updated, safe and follow government guidelines, it's also acceptable to have time away from the constant hold of Coronavirus and tune into what makes you feel good within the premises of what you can take part in from home. Aspects of the situation we're in can become overwhelming, so it's vital to find your own coping mechanisms that aren't a detriment to your wellbeing. Your own release, way to relax, feel good, shift emotions and tune out of the unnecessary noise for a while.  Although the circumstances at home will be different for everyone, we're all able to ensure we take some time for ourselves to unwind and take part in what we enjoy. It may be learning something new, it may not, there is no pressure attached, just freedom and enjoyment. Explore, experiment

   Along with the challenges of Lockdown, there could perhaps be the time to explore ones interests and new beginnings, support small businesses, experiment, and step outside our comfort zones. Lockdown has brought its fair share of hurdles, we're all facing our own difficulties whether it be income, working from home, looking after children, loneliness, anxiety, boredom or simply feeling both frustrated and exhausted by the situation. But a silver lining of some time with ourselves or families is that we're able to experiment with new things, engage with activities to look after our mental and physical well-being. It could be a walk, getting some fresh air and appreciating nature. Perhaps you joined in on the viral banana bread making. Having a relaxing bath, watching a new series, trying out some yoga, starting to learn a language, reading a book or completing a puzzle. Of course, this is a demanding time for all of us, our emotions and state of mind will change and go throug

'Starting a new calendar or diary with so little routine and plans to fill it with.'                                         2021 has begun and we're all hopeful that this year will be better than the last, as the vaccine is distributed and Tier 4 guidelines are followed, we're all holding on for cases of Coronavirus to fall and allow restrictions to eventually reduce, resulting in reunions with families and friends and having our freedom restored. For many January is a difficult month anyway, let alone with a global pandemic continuing to influence our choices and daily lives. It's usually a month of challenges regarding starting up work after the celebrations and time off over Christmas, cold, dark and getting ourselves back into routine, perhaps with new goals and new year resolutions. So despite the difficulties that usually come with January and the post holiday blues, there is always a slight glimmer of optimism for the new year ahead and what it might entail,