Wasting time depletes mental energy, and getting structured bolsters it! I consider a structured day to be like wearing a personal energy brace; it supports the mind and allows conscious consideration of time.

Many of us have been working from home without the structure of our usual routine. Perhaps we’ve not even bothered to get out of our nightwear or cared about our appearances. It’s not surprising seeing as there are lots of us who look like Yetis currently due to salons being closed; we could be thinking, why bother?

Yet, it’s well reported that during the lockdown there has been a worrying increase in mental health crises and general mental health decline. So, getting structured and getting some of your old routine back ought to be considered as an old friend.

Of course, many of us remain in the dark, worrying about life post lockdown. But worrying only zaps energy, whereas being constructive helps to replenish it.

Start with a simple list of things that you want to achieve in the week ahead. Make those wishes realistic. Next, look at your diaries and divide those tasks over the next seven days. They could be: taking items to the tip, re-organising child care, going for a run, and so on. Finally, recall your old meals routine, the week day meals you used to plan ahead. Get these ingredients back in your cupboards so that you are ready for your imminent return back to work or studies.

Returning to work or school, even on reduced hours, will be tiring – getting back to your old lifestyle may be tough at first. Try and introduce some structure slowly back in your days to help you transition – getting organised now and getting back into some sort of a routine will help bolster your energy and improve your mental wellbeing.