Comforting Things, Vol. 7: Jessica Armstrong
“Comforting Things” is a series we started when we all reached out to each other, too angry and sad to do much of anything, and thought about what we could do to make each other feel better. We’ve kept on with variations of the series – “Comforting Films” being a favorite – and we’ve decided to bring it back now, as we’re all confined to our homes and facing times that are not only destructive to physical health but to mental health, as well. Twice a week for the next few weeks, Attic writers and editors will take turns sharing what it is that they’re finding comforting in the time of COVID, hoping to create a better sense of community but also, in hope that you may find something that is comforting to you as well. In this latest piece, Jessica Armstrong embraces gratitude and beloved activities at home.
All photos courtesy of Jessica Armstrong.
As may be the case for some of us, adjusting to a ‘new normal’ has meant that I have relinquished some of my new-found independence. My childhood bedroom has found an unexpected new calling as a makeshift office, a yoga studio, and a place to lay my head. I count myself very privileged to have a family home I could retreat to at a moment’s notice (before lockdown), and to be able to try to navigate this uncertainty from a place of familiarity.
Exercise
Normally, I would walk anywhere between two and four miles each day, to and from work and often incorporating a run or cycle in when I could. Having plenty of space in the form of country roads where I can run has been a huge comfort, as I see it as a very welcome form of release. I have found a reassuring source of comfort in practicing yoga, too. Simply being aware of the space within my body has been a helpful counter to feelings of being confined by distance restraints!
Reading
At the moment, there is just so much material which could be consumed in the media that I find myself torn between being completely overwhelmed and determined to understand what I can. I have found balancing my reading by making my way through my never-ending ‘to be read’ pile and then turning to the reports and economic analysis has been the best way to quieten my mind. In both scenarios, I am very grateful to have more time to read and to at least try and contemplate some of what I’m taking in.
I also took a lot of joy from participating in an independent bookshop book exchange, which allowed me both to receive a bookish surprise in the post and to support a local bookshop in the process.
Bullet journaling
‘What - bullet journaling? In this climate?’ I hear you cry. ‘How does one go about filling a monthly spread if you aren’t allowed to schedule anything’? Hear me out, dear reader. In my bullet journal is a gratitude log - a space devoted to listing the highlight of my day, however small (and believe me - there have been some small highlights of late). Although this has become a habit for me, I am finding that I have never been so aware of all of the bright things I am so lucky to know in the midst of the unknown. This also encourages me to be present at a time when it is ridiculously easy to either pine for what I knew before, or wish away my days until this has passed - all while entertaining an illusion of routine.
Working my way through Sulieka Jaouad’s Isolation Journals project has also been restorative, and a reassurance that I still know what a sentence is.
Connection
As many of my closest friends live in different countries, I am well used to virtual catch ups.
However, with the advent of lockdown and the rise of Zoom, I am thankful to have had the opportunity to meet others, friends of friends, all while taking part in the likes of an online ‘pub quiz’ or other novel activity. While this will never compare to the real thing, I have a newfound appreciation for technology and its ability to bring us together in times of real strangeness and uncertainty.
A self described student for life, Jessica Armstrong left one university for another, and now works in Belfast. When she isn't trying to reduce her caffeine intake or levels of sarcasm, she can probably be found trying to get through as many Victorian tomes as possible.
Continuing our series of Comforting Things in time of COVID, Culture Editor Eliza Campbell shares the things that have been soothing her soul in lockdown.