For those who know me, or follow me on my personal social media, they would know that as I write this, I’m currently in  “quarantine.” No, I’m not sick, nor have I been exposed to someone who is sick. I simply want to see my family in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Manitoba is one of the only provinces in Canada that has a quarantine protocol. However, since I can’t quarantine while I’m in Manitoba, I’m doing the quarantine before I go. How is that allowed, you may ask? You know, I don’t really know. I don’t make the rules, I just follow them and this exception is allowing me to see family. Under a list of “exceptions,” this loophole falls under “article L.”  

I also am someone who is quite the rule follower, if I agree with them. I’ve been asked “but you can go on walks, right?” or “you can see people from a distance, right?” The answer is no- I have to follow the “Quarantine Act” so I haven’t been outside my building since July 29th. If I have to leave my apartment unit for any reason, I wear a mask and fiercely wash and sanitize immediately after. I am on day 13 as I write this (leaving on the morning of day 15).

Here are some reflections from my quarantine, in case you have to quarantine.

Permission to Relax  

I was worried about coming into this, as it’s the middle of the summer and people are more out and about. I for sure thought I would have FOMO (fear of missing out). Shockingly, not being able to make plans, has let me lean into doing whatever I want. I’ve spent a lot of my time (outside of working) relaxing, and oh my does it feel great! 

Movement is Key 

I am someone who typically goes on multiple walks a day. I was worried that the lack of walking and moving would be impairing my mental health. Luckily, I have a mini-elliptical at home and have been using that daily to move. This helps me get rid of any anxious energy that arises. 

Let it Breathe  

What is “it” you may ask? Whatever you want or need to let breathe, breathe. Whether it’s a clean face without makeup, undergarments, social media use, this is a perfect time to let it breathe. In more recent days, I’ve limited my phone use at night as I find it’s triggering some anxiety in me. I have worn minimal makeup and only if I have clients. I have even gone without wearing a bra. 

12 Days is Mentally Enough

I was doing so well the first 11 days until day 12 when I experienced my first period of boredom. I felt like on day 12, nothing was satisfying me. Luckily for day 13 and 14, work keeps me occupied and the days will go by quickly. As it’s said in Finding Nemo, “just keep swimming.”

Have you quarantined and have tips? Comment below!

Written by Alana Kaplan, Project Manager for the I Am Resilient Project.