Isolation Inspiration

Much has changed since the 23rd March when Boris Johnson announced to the public that he was ordering what was essentially a lockdown across the country. Only allowing essential travel to work, to the supermarket, pharmacy or to care for a relative. The twittens of Lewes town and countryside across the district that are usually buzzing with people quickly thinned out and the people of the district started doing their bit to stay at home, and save the NHS. 

Today is the 1st of May and just one 'stay at home weekend' away from six weeks of self-isolation in total. For many who are no stranger to working from home, it doesn't feel like a great deal has changed, but being restricted to four walls has undoubtedly been a challenge for many. The team at VisitLewes have been busy compiling lists of local businesses, produce suppliers, restaurants and more that have adapted their way of working to be able to provide to residents all across the district in this time of need

If you're reading this and in need of some food shopping, check out our comprehensive list here.

Staying happy and healthy during this time takes a lot more than just ensuring you have fresh, healthy and plentiful food available. Keeping your mind occupied is just as important, and we are all seeing many examples of how people are being creative at this time. Some are digging out the glitter and glue guns and turning their hand to some arts & crafts, others are hosting live yoga videos over Facebook, and it's safe to say that almost everyone has finished a puzzle or two! 

Whilst all of this uncertainty is unsettling, it's a really good idea to use this time effectively. Find a project to get your teeth stuck into and you're sure to find that all of this spare time is a friend more so than a foe. Why not tackle that spare room that needs decorating, or dig out the Trowl and stop putting off that weeding that needs doing in the garden. 

Lewes is awash with talent when it comes to all things creative. The creativity across the board with our wealth of artists, makers and creators is plentiful and there's no shortage of inspiration in our district. We've compiled some of our favourite 'Isolation Ideas' for you to peruse. From Arts & Culture online to connecting with nature, we've tried to find something for everyone.

Head to our Isolation Ideas page to see it all.

Don't forget to make the most of your daily exercise. Try not to waste it by trailing the same paths as before, use it as an opportunity to discover areas of your neighbourhood that you haven't before, but make sure you're not wondering too far from home, however tempting it may be. Take in all of those colourful rainbows in everyone's windows, and soak in some Vitamin D and a good dose of fresh air. Just what the doctor ordered. Living Streets have put together an informative article on how to 'Walk the right way' and do so safely, have a read of it here.

Whilst we know that it's important to keep ourselves busy at this time, we must appreciate that the utmost importance is our safety and that of those around us. Follow the government guidelines closely, keep your distance, and wash those hands!

If you or someone you know needs some support during this time, pick up the phone and call the Lewes District Council Community Hub Line that has been set up for this exact reason. This can be for food shopping, getting a prescription delivered, taking the dog for a walk, or putting you in touch with a befriending service so you can have someone call you for a quick natter every so often. There isn't much that they aren't able to help you with.

Call the LDC Community Hub on 01273 099956

It's important to remind ourselves each day that although this feels like a long slog, there will be a time when we can get back to normal. Reconnect with the great outdoors, with our friends and families, and welcome tourists back to our district so we can share our very special piece of the South East.