One Human Family - IN EXTRAORDINARY TIMES

All around the world, we are in lockdown in a bid to slow down the spread of the COVID-19 virus. And we are coming to terms with this collective experience. In this article, RUBY CARMEN shares some insights, inspirations and suggestions for coping well in this extraordinary time.

- RUBY CARMEN

DEVELOP STRUCTURE AND ROUTINE

In lockdown, many of us have been given the gift of time. In a recent article published in the New York Times, astronaut Scott Kelly offers some excellent advice on putting structure and routine into your day, including fixing a time to get up and go to bed. Having structure is helpful for well-being and can offer a sense of purpose for both adults and children. There is an element of security and safety in routine. Where possible, create some boundaries of workspace and home space, and allow yourself and your children time off.

JOY AND PLAY

Allow time for joy and play. This feature of the human condition has manifested in the exponential growth of online kindness groups springing up like flowers, and the outpouring of multiform and multimedia creative outlets and ways of expression – online singing and music-making, art classes, ukulele playing classes, and meditation sessions across the globe. New possibilities continue to arise, as human beings endeavor to express themselves and connect with each other.

COMMUNICATE AND CONNECT