I often think that I am quite lucky because I can predominantly work from home. However, working from home does have its challenges.
Set up your routine with limited amounts of time staring into your devices. Incorporate either a daily walk at your local park or spend time in your garden. The calming effects of the natural environment are particularly beneficial for easing stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression. Also, and we all know this, getting out into the light helps boost our immunity.
I have a personal assistant, but I don’t talk to her much these days. For years, she at least pretended to look interested. Now that her sight and hearing has diminished, this geriatric little dog has taken up excessive snoring inbetween meals. Meanwhile, I have taken up talking to the birds.
Yes, I realise that comes across as somewhat bonkers, but it works for me. I am of the firm belief that as soon as you make eye contact with most creatures, you should acknowledge them with a sound.
I find it puts birds at ease. I have a kereru who visits daily. This large, colourful character is so relaxed here listening to my crazy banter. He often yawns, puffs up and takes a snooze.
I quite like calling to the fantails. Their call is one of the easiest sounds to mimic. Fantails are often followed around by waxeyes and warblers. This is because fantails are usually the first to spot a swarm of little insects. I mimicked the sound of the fantail and managed to attract several grey warblers. This is how I managed to capture a great photo of one of them.
So, I encourage you to use any additional time you have at home to get outside and connect with nature. Stay safe, stay sane and go talk to the birds. If you get some strange looks from your neighbours, it’s probably because they read my column, too, and you’ve been calling back and forth to one another. It’s all good. I’m happy to take the blame. (HEIDI PADAIN)
To see some of Heidi’s other photographic work, go to www.flickr.com and type Heidi Padain into the search box, or, you can contact Heidi by email hidihi@xtra.co.nz, or look her up on Facebook - Heidi Padain Photography.