A threefold strategy for productive and balanced cocooning
Simone de Boer, Lecturer Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology
While the term cocooning is not usually associated with being productive, the current situation requires
us to turn this notion upside down: to turn cocooning into a productive activity. For many people this
means a shift in their work-life balance, which can generate difficulties. Some people struggle to be
productive at home, while others find themselves to be constantly ‘at work’. My strategy to balance
productivity with relaxation is to 1) stay away from the endless stream of (corona) news and
speculations, 2) focus on the present day and the things I can control or influence, and 3) follow astrict daily routine, including many breaks. In these breaks I practice yoga, go for a walk,
water the plants or simply sit outside and enjoy the sun. This helps me ‘reset’ my body and brain, thereby avoiding physical and mental overstraining and creating a more continuous flow of
productivity and focus. I think it is important to take good care of our wellbeing, and living a somewhat secluded life can help us ‘attune’ to ourselves and foster introspection, which, once
part of our daily routine, will benefit us not just now, but in the future as well.