Coronavirus in Madrid: Updates and Advice

Coronavirus has officially arrived in Madrid.

As recently as last week, I watched news of the unfolding pandemic with shockingly limited perception. I listened when friends explained the long-lasting effects on the economy and the importance of social distancing. But the phenomenon still felt far away.

I scheduled yoga classes. I visited museums, worried about my book edits and generally went on about my life.

That’s crazy about everything happening in Italy, I would think when I browsed through Instagram. I agreed that the phenomenon certainly seemed serious. But, even as the streets in Madrid grew quieter, it seemed serious somewhere else.

Somehow, the idea that the same measures would fall when Coronavirus arrived in Madrid stayed far from my mind. I didn’t quite believe that this particular situation would have any direct impact on my life.

Then, last Monday, Madrid announced school closures.

This effected me. Mostly, because Cam would now work from home. And I already work from home. So, I planned to go to the library when he had to give his online classes.

The next day, all public libraries closed down.

Well, this is getting inconvenient, I huffed to myself as I settled down to work in a coffee shop. (I am more of an absolute silence kind of woker-see related post here.) But I guess I can work in a coffee shop for a week or so.

Then, the government announced bars, restaurants and coffee shops would also close down.

A bit late to the game, I realized this global pandemic would, most likely, have a noticeable impact on my life.

As of this morning, Madrid has shut down except for essential movement. In less than one week, we went from business-as-usual to extraordinary measures.

Here’s what I’ve learned from the spread of Coronavirus in Madrid

Be prepared

As I mentioned, we bought additional groceries. I don’t recommend ransacking all the Kleenex in the neighborhood, but I’m happy we purchased some food and supplies. Also, if there is still a library open in your neighborhood, go there and stock up on reading material and board games.

Plan meals

Boredom is a major shutdown concern. Already, Cam and I are happily spending time each day planning out meals. Food, even simple menus, provide a focal point and time together during the day. More important, meal prep gives us something to do. If you are looking for an easy recipe, try this one-skillet vegetarian chili from the New York Times. Or, this red lentil soup. Both can be made with just a few pantry staples.

Follow a schedule

Honestly, this situation changes little about my working days. I work from home already. I don’t have kids that are suddenly trapped in self quarantine with me. But if your routine is about to change dramatically, I think it’s important to consider your goals for each day and create a schedule. Wake up with a few objectives in mind and make a plan to execute them. It staves off depression.

Stay in touch

It’s tempting to feel isolated when you’re in a quarantine. But remember, there are lots of ways to stay in touch with friends and loved ones. Take time to reach out to the people in your life and ask how they’re holding up. Plan phone conversations or video chats. Find online classes with live chat groups. Just because the streets are empty doesn’t mean that everyone has disappeared. Channel your inner, internet-crazed teenager and go find ways to stay engaged.

Create an at-home exercise plan

It’s important to keep moving. As long as you have space to turn around in your house or apartment, you can create an exercise routine. Check out one of the free fitness channels on Youtube or string together a set of exercises you know you enjoy to generate your own regimen. Aim to exercise between 15-60 minutes a day.

Challenge your mind

Try and stay positive. A quarantine might actually be a great time to work on a new project or start a demanding reading routine. Other great mental challenges: download a chess app to your phone or computer or take up online bridge. Watch a thought-provoking documentary instead of The Office (again). If you’re at home with others, learn a new card game or revisit old recreation classics like Hangman and Pictionary. We’re lucky to live in a time when there’s lots of options for entertainment available. Choose activities that stimulate creative thinking.

Most important, stay safe. Don’t risk exposure. Take time instead to relax, regroup and catch up on your reading list. As we say in Spain, ¡Feliz cuarentena!

Banner Photo Credit: Alex Vasey