The Changes of COVID-19

For the last year and a half, I've lived with the restrictions of COVID and have been advised to shield due to my health problems. Now all of a sudden changes and restrictions have lifted which means I'm 'free'. They may say I'm free, but I definitely don't feel free - I'm more afraid than ever. I know we can't live our lives with full-on restrictions but I wish someone could create a middle ground for those so unwell and vulnerable with our health issues.

Changes and anxiety

I have no idea how other countries are working, but here in the UK, each region works at a different pace, meaning England would make decisions and a couple of weeks later Wales would make theirs. We still have to wear our masks (if not exempt) in shops and while traveling on public transport. It is so strange having the freedom back while the numbers slowly creep up.

I spend my days trying to keep fit with exercises at home and doing online courses through the local college. I am going out occasionally, but for now, my hubby comes with me as I do suffer from agoraphobia and anxiety. These are made worse by hardly going out in lockdown. It seems like a rollercoaster - up and down, up and down.

Working through challenges

Life does give us challenges and obstacles to get through, but I think without them life would be boring. COVID came in so quickly and it shook the whole world. Nobody knew what was happening.

We need to keep strong and fill our lives with interests to stay healthy and have fun, which I believe we can do despite having COPD. I started a new hobby last year which was drawing - I managed to do levels 1 and 2 of the class. Next month I'm doing level 1 in acrylic painting which I'm really excited about.

It is great to look out from your comfort zone and push your ability forward. This also becomes part of the exercises, adding in different things when I'm exercising. One day I may add marching on the spot in-between each exercise. Keeping as active as I can, I change things to push me that bit further.

Moving forward

Although I'm not going out as much as I did, keeping active and positive while doing the things that I do enjoy makes me feel good. I don't think back on the what-ifs as it won't get me anywhere. Starting to dwell gets me low in mood and would stop me from doing things I have to do.

We so need to stay strong - not just physically but mentally too. They definitely go hand in hand on the COPD journey. It's so exciting to see how we all do our best and the positivity that can come out. It puts a sparkle in your eyes and a smile on your face.

Editor's Note: We are heartbroken to share that Debz passed away in October of 2021. She is deeply missed but her positivity and resilience live on through her articles. Thank you for everything, Debz.