'I’ve been in self-isolation now since the middle of January' - Lancashire man reveals what life is really like under lock down in China

I’ve been in self-isolation now since the middle of January, just when the outbreak began to get serious here in China.

During the first couple of weeks, ordering groceries became more like trying to pick up a ticket for Glastonbury.

Supermarket apps introduced a queuing system, and being able to secure a delivery slot felt like winning the lottery. Things are back on track now, but not having everything on tap made me become more frugal.

I can now do amazing things with just a packet of instant noodles and a couple of eggs, and leftovers always become part of my next meal.

Admittedly, becoming a shut-in does becomes quite boring if you allow it to.

Keeping myself busy, both physically and mentally, has been the best way to keep things ticking over until it’s safe to resume a normal life.

Being housebound, you realise how important those short walks to the shop or bus stop really are.

After a few days of inactivity, I soon felt like the Wizard of Oz’s Tin Man after being left in the rain. That’s why I began doing stretches and light cardio each morning, before showering and changing.

It’s a small thing, but wearing clothes instead of pyjamas during the day really helps me feel more human. As for a social life,

I’ve found it very important to stay in touch with friends and family. Checking in with a loved one each day has kept my mind balanced and allows me to still feel like part of society.

Meanwhile, remembering that this situation won’t last forever has kept me from feeling anxious.

Staying upbeat has been far better for my mental health than binge-reading coronavirus articles and working myself into a frenzy. Most importantly, I’ve been reminding myself that above all, self-isolating is a selfless act.

We’re all in this together, protecting each other’s health. And by keeping our minds on the light at the end of the tunnel, these difficult months will soon be over."