January Blues

Well, what a weird year 2020 was! It felt like it went on forever, didn’t it? I can’t begin to imagine what it would have been like if we didn’t have access to all this technology. It has enabled most people to keep connected with the outside world — especially people who live alone. When I look back on the last year, specifically where my AD was concerned, it was a tough old year.

In a previous article, I wrote about how I thought the pandemic had a huge impact on my well-being. I try hard to avoid using all these well-worn cliché’s such as ‘struggle,’ ‘battle,’ ‘journey,’ etc., but I have to be honest with myself… it has been just that.

On balance I was able to take control

What was pleasing about the last 12 months was that I think on balance, I was able to get control of my eczema, to a certain extent. You can never take your eye off the ball, and occasionally when I did so, I paid the price. I think that’s what makes this disease so frustrating. Once you think you’ve got it sussed, it comes back to remind you, ‘Hey, I’m still here, don’t be getting cocky now!’

Spending quality time with family

The other thing that was pleasing about the past year or last part of the year was Christmas. Everyone here in the UK was really down about ‘Christmas being canceled’ due to the lockdown. But actually, It was a really nice period for me. I spent time with my brother and his family. We all felt like the time spent with each other, although short, seemed more meaningful because we had not seen each other apart from the odd Zoom call.

I managed to keep my diet disciplined

Also, I was very pleased I could stringently stick to my diet, which I outlined in one of my previous articles, which led to the reduction of flare-ups. I didn't drink a drop of alcohol apart from a glass of red on New Year's Eve. I stuck to healthy eating, avoiding sugary foods and snacks.

Okay, I did have a few chips or crisps as we call them in the UK, but that was as naughty as things got.

New year, January blues

When the new year comes around, I always go through the January Blues. After the usual festivities, the new year always feels a little flat. This year it feels flat for very different reasons. Our Prime Minister is due to make an announcement tonight at 8 pm (4th Jan). My guess is that the whole country will enter a full lockdown for a month due to the death rates going through the roof.  It's not the start to the year that we need, but we must go through it for the country's sake. Sigh!

Staying focused in the new year

So, now more than ever is the time to stay focused. I will step up my exercise. I will keep on track with all my meds, both for my eczema and asthma. I will continue to eat well and keep hydrated. So, to all my fellow AD warriors, wherever you may be, keep the faith, keep disciplined, and hopefully, we will be out of this soon.