Some people take out the rubbish dressed as dinosaurs amid a shortage of facemasks, others play music or sing from their balconies to cheer up their neighbours; and zoo or aquarium employees have allowed some animals to have a field day by letting them roam around empty buildings.
Another side effect of countries around the world imposing complete lockdowns is that air pollution levels are now considerably lower.
Wild animals have returned to the much clearer waters of Venice’s canals, usually packed with tourists, after Italy closed the country to foreign tourists and imposed a lockdown.
One thing that I think has been sorely underestimated is how serious a mental strain the virus puts on each and every one of us. The uncertainty is relentless. Attempting to protect yourself and your loved ones when the science is changing and while you're worrying about your work, your children's schooling, and your day-to-day life is exhausting. You will find yourself at home trying to read a spreadsheet when your kids are fighting in the living room day after day after day. In my own residential complex, I have seen people break out into shouting matches with security guards. Couples quarreling. A woman wandering aimlessly in her pajamas carrying a vacuum cleaner. Everyone is on edge. Everyone is trying to manage their own situation. And there is no respite.
So find ways to nourish your mental health and not feel overly confined. If you have a backyard, sit outside. Take a walk if you can. Call your family and friends. Know that your patience will be tested.
Another side effect of countries around the world imposing complete lockdowns is that air pollution levels are now considerably lower.
Wild animals have returned to the much clearer waters of Venice’s canals, usually packed with tourists, after Italy closed the country to foreign tourists and imposed a lockdown.
One thing that I think has been sorely underestimated is how serious a mental strain the virus puts on each and every one of us. The uncertainty is relentless. Attempting to protect yourself and your loved ones when the science is changing and while you're worrying about your work, your children's schooling, and your day-to-day life is exhausting. You will find yourself at home trying to read a spreadsheet when your kids are fighting in the living room day after day after day. In my own residential complex, I have seen people break out into shouting matches with security guards. Couples quarreling. A woman wandering aimlessly in her pajamas carrying a vacuum cleaner. Everyone is on edge. Everyone is trying to manage their own situation. And there is no respite.
So find ways to nourish your mental health and not feel overly confined. If you have a backyard, sit outside. Take a walk if you can. Call your family and friends. Know that your patience will be tested.
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