The Government has launched a new national campaign to help people deal with life under lockdown.
The In This Together aims to encourage everyone in Ireland to “Stay active stay connected and look after their mental health.”
As part of the campaign, people are being urged to pick a new activity which could help them to “feel a little healthier or a little better” as we come to terms with the outbreak.
A number of well-known sports stars have uploaded videos to help people stay active.
Kellie Harrington arrives in Dublin Airport after winning her silver medal in boxing at the European Games, 01-07-2019. Image: Leah Farrell / RollingNewsSpeaking at the launch this afternoon, Irish boxing champion Kellie Harrington said there are many different ways to get moving.
“[It can be] anything, just moving the body, getting a little bit of sweat up and feeling good,” she said.
“As athletes under the banner of Sport Ireland, we are all coming together and we are going to be posting up some small videos with our top tips for staying active, socially connected and fit throughout [the lockdown].”
We’re #InThisTogether and local authorities have lots going on to help you keep active and connected during #COVID19. Check out #YourCouncil website for details or have a look at a quick rundown at https://t.co/PMgNNfMAVz pic.twitter.com/1jyjBKRDyW
— Local Authorities Ireland (@LAsIreland) April 24, 2020
She encouraged people of all ages to turn on the radio or television and exercise with some music.
“Switch it on and you can do anything; it doesn’t have to be anything too strenuous,” she said. “Just switch it on and dance like nobody is watching – and in five or ten minutes those good endorphins are released.”
Minister for Children Katherine Zappone helps launch the new national #InThisTogether initiative to help people “Stay active stay connected and look after their mental health” during the COVID-19 crisis, 24-04-2020. Image: Leon Farrell/Photocall IrelandChildren's Minister Katherine Zappone said it is important for everyone to take action, however small, to protect their mental health.
“It is still a very difficult time and there are days when you feel lower than other days,” she said.
“That is what everyone is going through more or less in different ways, even the strongest of us.
“What do I do? I am looking forward to my Friday night Zoom with wine, tea or non-alcoholic beer, which the Taoiseach actually introduced me to.”
The campaign includes a range of advice for people of all ages – from playtime programmes for children to fitness tips and advice for dealing with cabin fever.
All the information can be found at gov.ie/together.
