As lockdown measures begin to ease, you might be starting to reflect on what has been a strange couple of months, to say the least.
The difficulties are all too familiar for many. However, some people are finding the slower pace of life is providing a lot of positivity, too.
These young people told us what they were able to do or achieve while in lockdown.
WATCH: Young people talk about positives they've found in their lockdown experience
Time to be creative
When you’re feeling restless or cooped up, focusing on making art can be a good way of channelling those feelings and, as Gracie (13) says, it can be extremely relaxing. She’s been making sequin art, which involves pinning sequins over a picture to create something beautiful.
Saffron (16) took a slightly different approach, and spent her time redecorating her room. Not only did this give her a creative outlet, but it taught her some valuable life skills too.
Spending time with family
While there may be days when they drive you up the wall, a lot of people are enjoying the extra time they’re getting with their family (for the most part). Harry (13) has been spending quality time with his dad in the garden, pulling up weeds and finding creepy crawlies.
Being part of a virtual community
Connecting with people online is a big part of our ‘new normal’. Neve (15) is a cosplayer, which means you not only dress up as a character, but you play the part, too. While the cosplay community usually connect at conventions, they’re having to skip these for online meet ups. Neve says being part of the community is really helping build her confidence.
Experimenting in the kitchen
Cooking is a great way to be productive and creative at the same time, but even the most seasoned chefs can get bored making the same things over and over again. Evie (15) has used the extra time in lockdown to keep things fresh in the kitchen by trying new flavour combinations in her cooking.
Keeping active
Exercising doesn’t just keep your body healthy, but your mind, too. When lockdown restrictions were stricter however, staying active became quite difficult for some.
There are plenty of exercises you can do from home and with no equipment. Tom (15) has been practising yoga, and although ideally you’d have a mat to do this on, you don’t need one. Tilly (13) has been doing dance lessons online, and has even created a routine to say thank you to the NHS.
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Now more than ever, being kind is incredibly important. Need inspiration on how to do it? Look no further.
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