How To Be Productive Without All The Pressure During Lockdown

Outfit: Shirt - M&S (similar) / Leggings - Primark

Some of us have been in the confines our home for nearly two months now, and it's not easy. Work and home environments have become one, for some work may even be on a complete hold and we're stuck with our devices and an unlimited access to social media. As you scroll endlessly through Instagram, especially, you may find people are doing more or even the most. Influencers are out there creating and delivering new content, they're still working and earning - putting on normal outfits everyday as if they would for street-style pictures. If I'm completely honest, it makes me feel a little guilty as a "blogger" myself that I'm not doing the most or even a little bit. Of course there's certain circumstances that prohibit me from maybe creating content (i.e: not being able to order any new products because that's kind of stopped here in Colombo, to my knowledge. Also my camera battery has taken to the grave and I haven't got a spare.) But I didn't let that stop me; I actually relaunched my YouTube channel because I suddenly had this time on my hands and thought; "I've got my phone, I've got a tripod, I've got editing software and internet. What the hell is stopping me?" And so last week, I posted a brand new YouTube video of 6 Easy Work From Home Outfits - I really enjoyed the experience, but here's the issue now: what do I do next? I have to top the last video. 

I also have been racking my brain for good blogpost ideas because there's only so much we can do sometimes and let's be really honest - I'm living in pyjamas or sweats, no make up and messy hair. If you're getting ready and all prim and proper right now, hats off to you because I simply cannot be bothered. I think the only truly productive thing I do on most days is workout and even that I slack on because I hate HIIT workouts, so I end up doing yoga or pilates instead. 

Maybe it's just me, but does anyone else feel like they're not doing enough? That there's this underlying pressure creeping up on you to do more?

Well I'm here to hopefully try and debunk that pressure by giving you productive things you can do that don't make you feel so guilty and feed your soul. 

1. Reading: As simple as it sounds, crack open a book. I cannot tell you how good it feels to just disappear into another world. I always talk about reading with my best friend, Tasha. We're both bookworms and we've set ourselves onto the GoodReads Reading Challenge, where you set yourself a number of books to read by the end of the year. I set myself at 24, Tasha's only gone and upped hers to 40 and she's already on book #26. That made me feel a little inadequate I can't lie but it's so good to realise you've got all this time to read. Finally grab those books that have been sitting collecting dust on a shelf or if you want to try something new, head to the iBooks or Kindle store and see what there is. I'm even just downloading free books from Apple iBooks because why the hell not and plus, they've got a whole array of Classics available for free too. I'm currently reading Wuthering Heights for the first time and plan to read a few more classics too. So why not sign yourself up for GoodReads and set a challenge, or just set a challenge by yourself: grab a notebook, a pen and write down a number of books you want to read, then keep a record of that and add a few stars as rating to remind you which books you really loved. 

2. Working Out: Okay I never shut up about working out, I know. But I really do enjoy it and I miss the gym but over this time, I've discovered new loves; yoga and pilates. I cannot tell you how good it is to stretch yourself out and have a change in my regular routine. Honestly, just jump onto YouTube and search for whatever you want because I guarantee it's on there. Then grab a mat, a water bottle and yourself and get to it. When you feel that pressure to workout, you don't have to go ham and do something crazy. The simplest workout that you feel and gives a bit of sweat is enough. Even simply giving yourself a good stretch out in the morning might just be enough. As long as you keep the blood flowing, the heart pumping and your energy up, you are absolutely fine.

3. Learn something new: I've seen lots of people mention this and I couldn't agree more. Maybe you've got a bucketlist/checklist of things that you've been dying to do or learn and you just haven't had the time. Well, now's the time and you've got no excuses. I mean, you do if it involves something like jumping out of an airplane or travelling the world... But you get my point. I've found via Coursera that there's online courses, both free and paid for, you can take from the comfort of your home. Whatever you want to learn, it's probably there. *Disclaimer for the free courses: if you want to participate and get a certificate, you have to pay like $50, otherwise you don't get a certificate but there are financial aid options or you can just do it for the hell of it.* However you want to go about it, it's a great time to learn something new and it'll make you feel really productive with tasks and readings etc. So why not try?

4. Create: Ah creation, my favourite thing in the world. I'm a creative, first and foremost so therefore this is my go-to. If you've got a passion for art, music, design, theatre and so on, why not dive into that? Take the time to draw or paint, work on that skill. If you can, learn a new instrument or take the time to further your knowledge in an instrument you already know. If you like acting, why not write yourself your own plays or skits or even act out your favourite scenes or plays then perform them for your family or even for the internet by filming yourself and publishing to YouTube. Filmmakers and script writers, maybe now is the time to work on that masterpiece. Why not write a book if you've got a flair with words? I find that creativity sparks so much joy and the time will fly while you're doing it, so before you know it you've been productive without realising or without the pressure. Enjoy yourselves, that's the main idea. 

5. Cooking & Baking: More than me, I think my Mum could tell you about this one. She has learned so many recipes online and executed them so beautifully that my tummy sings. It's so therapeutic as well and since we've all got to eat anyway, why not try out new recipes? You can get the most delicious things with the simplest and smallest list of ingredients sometimes. Seriously, my Mum's out here making homemade pasta and cinnamon rolls with very small amount of ingredients. So put on the food channel that you love, grab that cookbook of the shelf or even Google or YouTube recipes that you want to try and get to it. It'll make good use of your time because you're making treats for yourself and we all need a little bit of treating yourself right now. 

These five very simple things you can do without even thinking twice and they'll instantly make you feel more productive. There's probably other things you could do as well if you're up for it and have the resources, like redecorating or creating your master business plan. This is the time to do the things you've been putting aside because you didn't have the time. It's time to do things that you truly love. I know that for me it's really boosted my mood when I've felt a little down for not doing enough. But remember, you're all doing more than enough. This major change in our lives is not something we're accustomed to, we didn't plan or expect this. This is something we couldn't have prepared for, so doing your bit by social distancing and keeping yourself and others safe is more than enough productivity than you even realise. So well done to you for pushing through this. It's not easy, even for us self-decided homebodies because we all need a little bit of outside & friendship time too.  

I'm sending you lots of love and hoping you're keeping safe!

And a reminder, don't let social media make you feel inadequate. You're more than enough.

Lots of Love, 

Emily xx

Lockdown Life: Things I’m Grateful For And Won't Take For Granted Anymore

I’ve been thinking a lot about gratitude; giving thanks for what I have. I have been actively doing this for nearly a year now, listing things that I’m grateful for everyday, sometimes writing them down. I’ve made it a habit and it helps me to see the good in every day, even if it’s been a bad one. At an uncertain time like this, we are definitely left to our thoughts and it may be a tricky time for some or even most.

I watched an Instagram story the other night, from Calum Hood of 5 Seconds of Summer (yes, I’m a big fan and no I do not care what you think on this one) and what he said stuck with me. He said, “be easy on yourself, don’t put too much pressure on yourself in these times and keep being positive moving forward.” What I loved about this was that it was so simple in essence but heavy in it’s meaning. We do need to take the time to make sure that our minds aren’t pressurised.

I know for me I’ve felt constantly during this time that I’ve been so unproductive, that I’m not doing enough, being a bit lazy and so on. In reality, I haven’t been lazy, I’m getting up every morning and working out. After an uneasy sleep last night, a productive my overthinking mind never shutting up, I woke up this morning tired and not having energy to workout. I nearly actually told myself off for it. But then I realised that I should be grateful I’m working out at all regularly during this time.

That brought me to the point of this blogpost; what do I have to be grateful for right now and what will I not take for granted when this is all over.

 I currently have a lot of pictures of the sky in my camera roll

Going Outside

The most simple thing of all that we take for granted normally. As much as I’m a homebody, I’ve realised that I miss the outside. I’m lucky that I have a garden to go out into and a view to admire. My favourite part of my days lately has been sitting outside in the evenings on our wall, drinking tea and having a chat or even just looking at the sky transition from day to night. That fresh air is so welcoming. I even found myself yesterday wanting to go out for a run – I hate running. It’s just the idea of having that freedom to go outside that you no longer have. I’m grateful that I can still go outside, but I won’t ever take for granted after this the freedom to go outside. I’m going to do some exploring after this is all over let me tell you that.

 

Mum's cooking > everything

Food

When am I not grateful for food? Never. But right now when there might be shortage of products, there are normal purchases that aren’t easy to come by and you’re only allowed a certain amount, I have to be thankful for what we have, what we are able to get and my Mum. My Mum, ladies and gents, has been cooking up an absolute storm in our kitchen and I am truly blessed. She’s made everything from cakes to pies to bread to homemade pasta. Let me tell you, the lady who hated to bake is now baking every day. She’s actively finding recipes that include things that we have readily available at home and is making them so that we are spoilt. And spoilt we are. I’m truly grateful for the luxuries that we have at this time when realistically not everyone may have.

Friends

I already missed my friends since a good majority of them live in other countries, but this time makes me miss them more. Now I will tell you, I have cancelled plans in order to stay at home before but I’m vowing after this to not cancel plans – ever. When a friend asks me to hang out or whatever, I’m doing it because when you have to live that social distancing life and Facetime, Whatsapp, DMs, texting and phone calls become your new norm, you miss actually seeing the ugly mugs in front of you. (And yes, I am specifically talking about Tasha, Mel & Grace. If you’re reading this, I bloody miss you lot. I miss all my girls – Upandha, Alizey, Ushma, Sandali, Jamila… the list goes on.) But I’m so grateful that we live in a time when we can connect through that device constantly in our hands or our laptops. I’m grateful as hell for WiFi and social media because without it, it would be a lot harder to stay connected.

People Who Are Still Working & Risking Their Lives To Save Ours

I think we are all grateful for the people who are still doing their duties to ensure that we can keep on living. Medical professionals, law enforcements, food industry workers, scientists working on a cure and so on. While we sit in the comfort of our homes, they are on the frontlines making sure we have everything we need and that is truly a gift. Even one of my best friends is a paramedic and she’s still working – I couldn’t be prouder. We should all take the time every day to say thank you, whether that’s silently or openly by clapping outside of your window, for the people who are still going so that we can come together sooner. We shouldn’t take these people for granted. So think about them for a moment and take the time to think about what you can do for them when this is all over. Maybe don’t use and abuse the privileges that you have if you don’t need to. Give them a big old smile when you see them. Say thank you, even for the smallest thing or for nothing at all. Let them know that you are grateful for their service.

There’s a whole lot more that I’m thankful for, but I wanted to leave it with these because they are the biggest things for me right now and are at the forefront of my mind. I would love to know what you are grateful for right now and what you won’t take for granted when this period is over. Drop comments below, let’s have a conversation. And again, if you need an extra friend, I’m here for you!

Sending you lots of love and hoping you’re staying safe!

And don’t forget to be grateful.

Emily xx

How I'm Staying Motivated To Workout During Lockdown

At a time like this, when you’re at home living in sweats, you might just be making every excuse in the book to justify your laziness. I used to be like this until I started going to the gym religiously 5-6 days a week. So when that all came to a halt and lockdown life began, I had to motivate myself to workout.

Some people are absolutely blessed and have a home gym or a modified-work-with-what-you-have-and-make-it-a-home-gym; to those people, I applaud you because not only have you subconsciously prepared for this situation but you’ve got a gym sitting in your house that will probably make you feel guilty if you don’t use it.

Others may not have much at all to supplement a home gym, which isn’t a problem either. You might find a few random weights lying around or a yoga mat or some sort of exercise equipment and trust me that is more than enough. I’ve got a couple of weights, a yoga mat, a few resistance bands and luckily, a punching bag and some boxing gloves - I’ve got more than enough to work with.

If you don’t have enough to work with, you might just be able to jump onto Amazon and purchase a few bits. But if you don’t want to do that, you don’t have to. The point I’m making here is that equipment, or should I say the lack thereof, should not halt you from keeping fit.

Over these last 6 weeks, my best friend has undoubtedly become YouTube. I absolutely love YouTube and for good reason; it’s a saving grace at time like this. In that realm of wonderful video content is an array of workout videos. You will find everything from HIIT to yoga to pilates to structured workouts for different areas of the body. And if you aren’t into all the basic stuff, pick things that are out of the ordinary like dance, Zumba or boxing.

I’ve been so determined to keep my fitness levels up because it took work to get to the point that I’m at and I don’t want that to flop. A few things that I do to keep my motivation and fitness high are…

1.) To-do lists might just do the trick. I have been writing to do lists for every week and I follow them pretty much to a T. As well as writing all the productive things I have to do in the day, the first things I write down are; wake up early, workout plan and keep hydrated.

2.) Mix it up! For workout plan, I give myself a rough outline of what I’m going to do, even if that just means writing down “abs” or “legs”, “cardio” or “yoga”. I make sure that every day is different so I don’t get bored.

3.) Find a place that you can call your workout zone. It’s important to have a specific place that makes you comfortable to workout in. For me, I’m lucky to have a nice veranda out in my garden that overlooks a lake – that sounds really boujee, doesn’t it? But this is my new happy place for working out. The natural breeze, all the birds and beautiful sunshine keeps my mood high.

4.) Listen to your body and your mind. Your physical and mental health is so important right now. Stay tuned into the signals that your mind and body are giving you. If you didn’t sleep so well, then don’t overdo it or don’t do it at all. It’s okay to have a break, don’t punish yourself. Take it easy when you need to. And on those days you feel the energy is high, give it the best you’ve got.

With all this being said, make sure you keep hydrated, get good sleep and eat well too. It’s all about moderation and how you feel. Personally, workout out every morning has been really good for me mentally as well as physically. So if you’ve been feeling a little down, why not try getting in some exercise, even if it’s just giving your body a much needed stretch.

Here are the videos I’ve been following lately for workouts:

HIIT & Workouts

MadFit Full Body Fat Burn HIIT

MadFit 15 Min Total Core/Ab Workout

MadFit 10 Min Standing Abs Workout

Alexis Ren 10 Min Ab Workout

Caro Daur 22 Minutes Full Body Workout HIIT

Yoga & Pilates

SarahBethYoga 15 Minute Morning Yoga For Beginners – Weight Loss

SarahBethYoga 20 Minute Full Body Yoga Stretch For Beginners

SarahBethYoga 20 Minute Calming Yoga For Anxiety

PyscheTruth Total Body Pilates! 20 Minute Tone & Shape Beginners Workout

Sarah’s Day Core & Ab Pilates Home Workout

Sending you lots of love and hoping you’re staying safe!

Emily xx

Lockdown Life Diaries: The Little Positive Changes I'm Making

Outfit: Top - Zara (old but here's a similar)/ Leggings - Primark

Happy Monday everyone! I hope you had a good weekend and stayed safe.

I think I must be heading into week 6 of self isolation and week 4 of government mandated lockdown – I think the last time we were actually allowed out to break curfew was on the 24^th of March and the curfew was imposed the week before that. I don’t know, honestly I’m losing track.

I went through a bit of a slump at the end of last week; I think it was all getting a bit much and I honestly thought I was overreacting because I’m lucky to be in the place that I’m in and have the family I have. However, it’s not easy when routines break, not for anyone. Being able to go outside or to work or even to the shops are little luxuries that we normally take for granted and are now pining for. I’ve probably said that before, but I’ll say it again.

With that being said, I do want to remind you to please try and keep your spirits as high as you can. Make sure your mental health is in check because whilst this is nothing like going to war or something far worse, this is something none of us have been prepared for. This is not normal in the slightest and even the most resilient of minds can feel low at this time. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, please talk to someone that you feel comfortable with and let out all those emotions; it’s the healthiest option.

As I sat down to write my to-do lists for the week last night, I decided to make add in things that would make me a little happier. I’ve made it my goal to start drawing more, read some new books, write more, learn new skills or develop ones, make time for mediation and even for religion. As it’s Easter Week as well, I thought it would be nice to take time to read Bible passages and psalms. I’ve added things in that will keep me calm but also move my routine from being mundane to a little more interesting.

Take the time to brainstorm all the things you’ve been wanting to do and just go ahead and do them. You’ve got time to! If you’ve got the resources as well, then all the more reason.

I also started my day with a kickass workout – and yes, I truly kicked my own ass. I tried out Caro Daur’s HIIT Full Body Workout that she shared on YouTube last night, and let me tell you it was a task. I also got some boxing in, thanks to the fact that I have a punching bag in my house that needed some attention. I ended off the workout with Sarah Beth’s Weightloss Beginner’s Yoga for a good stretch.

I absolutely sweat my butt off so I proceeded to take a good shower, wash my hair and put in some coconut oil to nourish my hair. And I actually got a little bit more dressed today; I thought I would ditch the leggings, but I didn’t, however I did put a nicer top on for a change. I think it’s important for your mind to not always be in sweats – take the time to get a little dressed here and there, it’ll do you some good. I’ve even moved myself outside to the garden with the dogs for a change of scenery (as opposed to the inside of my house) and for fresh air.

It’s the little changes that will make the difference at a time like this. So do the things that make you happy and keep doing them!

Right, I’m going to shut up now, drink my cuppa and do some drawing.

Sending you lots of love and hoping you’re staying safe!

Emily xx

Here's What I've Been Up To This Week In Lockdown

Outfit: Top - Primark (old) / Sweatpants - Hudson & Rose (old)

Happy Friday everyone! How has your week been?

I don't know how long you've maybe been social distancing, self isolating or in a mandated quarantine/lockdown but I hope you're doing well. This is officially, by government regulation, my third week of lockdown. But unofficially, we pretty much started social distancing in our house about a month or so ago. I actually can't even remember the date, but I'd say we've been in this for about a month in terms of distancing. But full on lockdown has been in place here in Colombo since March 17th. It's long time, let's be honest. We're not used to this kind of thing at all, none of us. It can get difficult even though we're just being told to sit at home. 

For us, we're not even allowed a break from lockdown to go get groceries - our new normal is trucks, vans and cars coming with deliveries of food for purchase. It's strange. When we hear a car coming round the bend, someone goes to check what it might be. Surreal is definitely the main feeling of this. 

When you can't go to the gym or outside you result to working out in your bedroom. I've been doing this a lot in the mornings to keep the blood flowing.

We're lucky here at our house for a few reasons; My family are bloody nuts so we're always having fun and keeping spirits high, we're blessed with a home with a beautiful view of a lake right in front of us and constant fresh air, we're actually homebodies. However even though we're homebodies, that doesn't mean everyone needs a little break now and then. But we're pushing through. 

I hope you've noticed that since last week I stepped up my blogposts to one every week day! If you've missed out and not caught up, scroll through the last few posts; I've got everything from fashion to beauty to lifestyle and health. Well at least I think I have. I'm stuck now on what else to share with you and I'd love some new ideas!

What would you like to see on the blog? Let me know in the comments or hit me up in my DMs or even via email!

When it's too hot for sweatpants - The reality of lockdown life is big t-shirts and flimsy shorts.

Today's post, I thought I'd just take to reflect and let you know what I've been up to. 

For one, I've been watching a lot on YouTube and I want to take a moment to thank all the creators who are still going forward with their content right now! Honestly, what a blessing that we at home have things to watch for a distraction. I've also discovered a few movies on YouTube, specifically Golden Age movies - I've watch a few Alfred Hitchcock classics such as "To Catch A Thief" & "Dial M For Murder", both starring Grace Kelly who I adore. I've got a few more downloaded to watch, a few Cary Grant, Gregory Peck, Sophia Loren starring ones that I haven't watched yet. I'm actually really enjoying them. I've always believed I should've  lived in the 50's. 

I've been writing a lot too; I always been a writer so when I feel inspired, it's pen to paper or fingers to keys. I've really got lost in it and it's the perfect escape at a time like this. I think we all have an outlet that soothes us like this. I know a lot of people turn to art as well, that'll be my next option. As you can see, I've channelled a lot of my writing energy into my blog. As much as it is for me, it's also for you so I'm hoping you're benefitting too. How are you spending your time? What's been your saving grace on a daily basis? Let's have a conversation in the comments below about what you've been up to!

I've also been singing a lot on my other Instagram account, another habit of mine. Also, I've rediscovered the beauty in just sitting, relaxing and putting your iTunes on shuffle. I have thousands of songs in mine and I'm being thrown from old school jazz to the latest album I've downloaded to songs that remind me of high school. It genuinely makes me quite happy. Anyone else been doing this? 

These shoes were meant for... staying inside for the foreseeable future.

I won't say too much more because you're probably getting bored if you've got to this point. However I do want to end it by encouraging you to keep going. Keep in touch with your friends and loved ones. Discover new passions you've been putting on the back burner or rediscover old ones. Do whatever you can to make yourself happy! It's important that we stay strong mentally at a time like this. And if you need an extra friend, I'm here for you. 

Sending you lots of love and hoping you're staying safe!

Emily xx

How To Have Fun During Social Distancing

 A throwback photo because we are living in PJs and no make up - just a regular day in our household...

It’s already April. Can you believe it? This year is going so fast, which in a way is kind of a good thing since, let’s be honest, thus far it’s been rather shit. I’m one for positivity and seeing the light in everything, but 2020 hasn’t been the kindest so far. I think for me personally the upside of this year is my more determined dedication to write on this blog.

April 1^st marks April Fool’s Day; a day for pulling pranks and having a right royal laugh. In a time like this, we need all the happiness and laughter we can get. I'm lucky to have myself a crazy family that continuously has a laugh day in, day out. We're a family that pull pranks, scare the crap out of each other, take the mick out of each other; you name it in terms of fun, we're that family. Now I’m not going to give you prank tips because I’m usually the one to be pranked, apart from that time I absolutely killed it in school by crying on demand and freaking out my friend, Upandha, with the most ridiculous story. However, I am going to give you as many ideas as I can for you to generate fun, not just for today but for however long this social distancing situation is going to continue.

I’ll start with the obvious…

TIKTOK – the app that is singlehandedly taking the world by storm. Now I originally thought this was going to be more of a kids thing, but I’m a big kid anyway so I joined it and started posting (very rarely). But I’ve noticed over time more and more people are joining it because it is just so much fun. Whether you’re learning one of the typical dances or acting out scenes from movies or shows, whatever it might be, you can do it on there. I’ve seen more celebrities join it and influencers. The level of creativity on TikTok is advancing every day and it honestly astounds me. Anything goes on this app. So go do whatever you want – film yourself doing whatever you want, grab your family or your friends (if you’re self isolating with them) and have some fun!

Heads Up! – The game that Ellen DeGeneres created and keeps Mum, Olly and I in fits of laughter in the evening. Our now every evening routine is to sit outside in the garden as the sun sets and play it. We yell at each other, laugh far too much and miss out on the easiest of names at times. It truly is such a laugh for it. There’s so many different card packs to choose from and guess – there’s music, movies, pop culture, famous people even ones like Friends, Harry Potter and The Avengers. If you haven’t downloaded it yet, then go for it.

Puzzles & Mind Games – My mum has taken to finding little videos of weird mind games, puzzles or tricks we have to figure out and that’s been interesting. There’s one where you have a few glasses, some with water some without and you have one move to make sure there is water in another glass. Then there’s one where she put a 100 rupee note under a glass bottle and said if we can get it without lifting the bottle, it’s ours. There’s some random things that my Mum finds, but again it’s something to do and is a laugh. So Google or Instagram or TikTok search it! You’ll find loads of random tricks to do with the family.

Board games – Family night is about to be every night, so grab all your board games and have yourselves some fun. Our game choice is Monopoly and let me tell you, it gets heated. When you have a household of hot head competitors and gloaters, it can be a real test. Even if you don’t have board games, you might just have a pack of cards and we all know plenty of games we can play with that.

 House Party ­– I haven’t actually tried this one, but a friend has told me about this and I’m eager to try it out. When you can’t be with your friends face-to-face and play games, then why not make it a Facetime-esque situation with games embedded into the app. So when you’re all texting on the group chat that you’re bored, you’ll have a new solution.

These are just a few things off the top of my head, but there’s probably plenty more! What have you all been doing to keep the fun spirits up? Let me know in the comments below because I’d love to add more to my list. Also, if you’ve played any good pranks today, let me know too because they always crack me up – video evidence is encouraged.

Sending you lots of love, joy and hoping you’re staying safe!

Emily xx