For nearly two decades the condo market in Toronto has been on a tear. Sales have increased month-over-month and year-over-year with no end seemingly in sight… Until now. The pandemic has brought to light the limitations of condo life. When people have to self-isolate within their own homes, and that home is a one-bedroom condo it can get very tight, very fast especially if you are sharing it with someone else. although the easy fix would be to give up your rental or to sell your place and move out to a bigger one, the more realistic fix is to find ways to make self isolation in a limited amount of space less stressful and more appealing.
With condo boards shutting down amenities such as games rooms, fitness rooms, indoor pools, etc… Many condo residents have had to find creative ways to stay in shape while remaining self-isolated. During the summer it would have been possible to go outside daily for some fresh air and a change of scenery. However, with the weather getting colder it is necessary to find other ways of staying fit and sane while indoors. If you live in a high-rise condo, you can use the stairwell as a modified stair climber. Or, you can get your steps in by walking up and down the corridors. If you don’t feel secure enough to leave your unit, then it is possible to find exercise videos on YouTube aimed specifically at people who live in apartments or condos and don’t want to make noise while working out. These handy videos can help you stay in shape and keep your sanity while stuck inside.
Another good idea for keeping your spirits up while self-isolating is to create zones for yourself. Even if you live in a studio-like condo, designate areas for certain activities. If you are working from home, set up a home office somewhere other than next to your bed. Even if it has to be at your kitchen island or at the table, separating your work from where you go to sleep is very important. Let your sleeping area remain your sleeping area. it will help you to unwind and relax after you shut off your computer at the end of the day.
And, that is another important point – make sure to actually shut off your computer and put it away at the end of the day. You will be less tempted to check emails and to continue working if it is out of sight. It is very necessary to your mental health to power down and to give yourself a break. It is very easy to continue working well into the evening and night, especially when you’re confined to your home with nowhere else to go. However, this can be highly detrimental to your state of mind and your well-being. Torontonians are known for their strong work ethic, but in this instance it is better to take care of your sanity than to answer that last email.
Whenever the weather permits it is a good idea to go on walks in nature. If you are able to get out to a nature reserve or walk to a park near your place, then definitely do so. Studies have shown that walking in nature helps to ease stress and tension.
Keep in touch with family and friends via zoom or other communication platforms. It is very important to have connections with your circle during such a time. This is especially important now that the pandemic has been going on for so long and we are currently in a second lockdown.
Lastly, make sure your condo has good airflow and invest in an air purifier with a HEPA filter if you can. Keep surfaces clean and sanitary and if anyone does come over make sure that you are wearing your mask and you keep 2m apart.
We will get through this!
