Being in the midst of the current covid-19 chaos (and uncertainty) is challenging.
There is a lot of noise in the world just now and it can be confusing.
The ONLY thing I feel certain about right now is the need to keep calm and carry on.
Carry on in every aspect of life, including producing my usual content for Fake Fabulous.
Some might say that blogging about clothes at a time like this trivial and disrespectful to those who are suffering.
To them I say; In times of trouble the silly things in life can be more important than we realise.
If Im stuck at home (well or not) I want...no, in fact I NEED something 'trivial' to read.
Something to distract me from the sadness.
Somewhere to take my mind for 10 minutes that isn't full of doom, misery and worry.
I sincerely hope my favourite bloggers continue to provide us with their amazing content (which is FREE by the way!)
So, in turn, I intend to continue producing my content too.
If I can give you a couple of minutes of distraction from the current chaos then I'll be more than happy.
My thoughts are consumed with the social, economic and human impact of this pandemic BUT I am powerless to change anything.
I'm worried about vulnerable friends and family, but worrying 24/7 isn't going to change anything.
We all need to contiune to cope and do our best.
My 5 point plan:
1. KEEP GOING
Continue to do what you do until the point comes (or maybe it doesn't come?) where you have to stop.
I don't mean irresponsible behaviour like hosting parties or going to the pub.
I mean keep doing (modified versions of) the things you enjoy.
Carry on reading.
Carry on painting and drawing.
Carry on knitting (it keeps me sane...ish!).
Carry on creating delicious meals.
Carry on gardening.
Carry on blogging!
Carry on as 'normal' until things are forced to change.
2. AVOID SOCIAL MEDIA
Stay away from the rabbit hole that is (very unhelpful) social media hysteria.
Most of what you read is BS.
Don't get caught up in it.
It won't help.
It will either infuriate you or make you worry more.
3. FORGET ABOUT GOOGLING!
Don't "google".
Whether it's symptoms, treatments, self-help...whatever your concerns.
Don't waste your time on random sites.
Stick to reputable information sites.
For example your government and official medical sites... like the NHS or similar.
Even quality news broadcasters like a little sensation to sell a story so they're not helpful if you're anxious.
{Don't even think a bout looking at what the tabloids are saying...shudder!}
4. LIMIT THE NEWS
Try not to watch or listen to the local, national or global news too much during the day.
Remember that only sensational (exciting/tragic/horrifying) stories make news.
We see a distorted image of reality via the headline grabbers.
It can be all consuming and feed anxiety.
Limit yourself to one news session per day.
OR...if you're really struggling avoid it completely until you feel you can cope again.
5. KEEP HEALTHY (physically and mentally)
Continue to exercise.
If you can't get to your gym or out for your usual run (for whatever reason) try finding an at-home exercise programme or class to follow.
There's plenty of free content out there!
YouTube is brilliant for that.
Follow the guidelines for hand washing and cleaning.
Forget about fancy products, specialist hand washes and gels or protective equipment.
Good old hot water and soap is best.
Using PPE (personal protective equipment) like masks and gloves in an inappropriate way can actually be worse than not using it at all, spreading disease instead of protecting.
At work we are trained in how to use these pieces of kit correctly and the importance of handwashing.
Eat well... good wholesome meals and plenty of veg.
Drink plenty of water and tea!
{I love tea so that one is for me!}
Mental health is just as important as physical health.
Make time to keep in touch with friends and family.
If you can't see them in person pick up the phone for a chat or get on FaceTime (or similar).
It makes a huge difference.
Keep up with your hobbies, learning or creative outlets.
Take time out to read (no newspapers!) or watch your favourite shows/films.
It could be a good opportunity to learn something new!
The last thing that will help with anxiety AND mental wellbeing is to do your bit!
Do all you can to help reduced the speed of this virus and protect the most vulnerable.
If you can help in anyway then get stuck in!
Checking if an elderly neighbour needs supplies could be a good place to start.
So, with my 5 point 'coping in the chaos' plan in mind, let's get stuck into no. 1.
Continuing to do what I do....
Wearing clothes and talking about them!
Today I'm sharing a tentative lightly layered spring look.
I't's certainly NOT warm here by any stretch of the imagination... hence the hat!
BUT...
The sun is shining (for the moment) and there is a mildness to the air.
So, in celebration of the sunshine, I've peeled back a layer or two and ventured out with (brace yourself) B.A.R.E L.E.G.S!!
{It was a bit of a shock to the system TBH}
This is a cosy and warm outfit but it has a spring-like feel to it.
Maybe it's the light tan boots?
Maybe the khaki army-style jacket?
Maybe the fresh red colour?
Maybe my bare shins?!
Whatever the reason, I felt full of the hope that springtime gives us... which felt great!
{I need all the help I can get to feel hopeful at the moment}
How are you coping with this current situation?
Are you directly affected?
How are you staying positive?
Do you have any tips for coping in a crisis?
Are you carrying on as normal for as long as possible?
DRESS: c/o Alie Street Fighter (a few years old now)
JACKET: GAP (charity shopped several years ago)
LEATHER GLOVES: Charity shopped for the grand sum of £1!
SCARVES (2): Gifts
BOOTS: UGG
UNDER-TOP: M&S heatgen (a few years old)
BAG: Bogner (a gift 6 years ago!)
HAT: I can't remember where it's from but it's an oldie!
