Today (Monday) marks two weeks since the national lockdown was announced by the Italian government. As of this afternoon, there have been 367 confirmed cases of the COVID-19 Coronavirus here on the island of Sardinia, and a total of 11 people have now died due to the virus.

After these two weeks under lockdown in Italy, we are still unable to leave our homes, unless for grocery shopping, for medical reasons, or for essential work.

It has been three days since my last post here, and this is for two reasons:

Firstly, sometimes it’s necessary to take a break, and to rest your mind – to give yourself a mental break, especially during taxing times like this lockdown.

Secondly, sometimes it’s just necessary to spend time with the people you love, being silly. It’s important to continue to laugh, despite all the current negativity – allow yourself to disconnect from the bad for a moment.

Sometimes, it’s hard to find a balance for the things in life. I am not an expert in any field, so take my ramblings with a pinch of salt, but this time in lockdown has definitely given me plenty of time to contemplate what’s important in my life.

Watch funny films, read funny books – laughing releases endorphins that help to relieve stress. Ideally, laugh with others. Video call someone during your favourite TV show and have a chat with them about it. You can even watch Netflix with friends remotely on different computers – a quick Google will explain how to do this.

Socialise as much as possible if you live with others, or get in touch with friends and family online. Sharing your experience with others, talking, and keeping human contact are important. As I said previously in another article – It’s worth noting that even the smallest act of kindness can go a long way to making us feel more connected. Just because we’re keeping a distance, doesn’t mean we can’t smile and wave to our neighbours, or be kind to others.

Social distancing doesn’t need to be full self-isolation. Check on your own mental health – stop, take a moment, and ask yourself how you’re doing. Ask for help when you need it.

Try and work out at least once a day- this is not necessarily just to stay in shape. When you stop exercising, you stop being able to manage stress. If you’re having an issue with your sleeping pattern, exercise is the best way to reverse it.

At the moment in Italy, we’re strongly advised against going for walks, or runs, all in order to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus. However, exercising doesn’t necessarily mean having to go outside – there are plenty of exercise tips and tutorials on YouTube for any kind of indoor activity, regardless of age, or physical ability. Even ten minutes a day is enough to reduce stress levels.

This weekend, I spent quality time with my wife, I had voice and video calls with some of my family and friends, and I generally just took a break from all virus-related topics. It’s tough to stay positive when you’re constantly checking social media and the news for updates.

I’m proud to say that we spent time perfecting our homemade pizza, brioche, and bread recipes. Another reason why exercise is important!

We also finally managed to setup a camping table and chairs to eat lunch on our little balcony – our own little piece of paradise, seeing as we can’t enjoy Sardinia to its full potential during the lockdown.

Our own little piece of paradise

For now, and until the end of the lockdown, or until life truly returns to normal, I’ll aim to make a post every second day. This is to keep my mind occupied, and also to make sure I have time for myself, and the other special people in my life.

Some unsolicited advice from someone with a lot of time on their hands?

Follow the necessary precautions – stay at least a metre from other people, don’t go shopping every day, cover your coughs and sneezes, and wash your hands regularly. Be responsible, and try to use your time wisely, and overall, stay at home!

#DistantiMaUniti – Distant but united.