Now we’re well into the third lockdown, there’s no denying that the adrenaline from the first lockdown has disappeared and people are looking for new things to take their minds off current circumstances

We asked Blog Preston readers how they were getting through the winter lockdown and you came up with some brilliant ideas!

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From trying to learn a new language with Duolingo to finding an addictive TV show to binge watch, here’s just a handful of our favourites which may help you cope with the lockdown.

Find the perfect local walking spot

Nature has been one of the few saving graces during lockdown.

In this winter lockdown, there’s nothing more satisfying than wrapping up warm in a big coat and a scarf and heading out for a lovely winter walk.

Before you know it, it’ll be spring!

Here are some suggestions for easy walks in Preston:

• Boilton Marsh Circular
• Cuerden Valley
• The River Ribble in Preston

Here are some suggestions for moderate walks in Preston:

• Nab’s Head, Samlesbury Bottoms and Hoghton Bottoms
• Fair Snape Fell and Parlick
• Nicky Nook Circular

Find more information and wonderful walks here.

Take up a new crafting activity

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A post shared by A crafter’s story 📚 (@plot_stitch)

Whether you’re a keen crocheter, love sewing or just love to doodle the days away, taking up a new crafting activity can really take your mind off things.

If you’re a newbie, there are so many tutorials available online to help you find your stride.

Blog Preston reader Sarah Parsloe said: “I learned to knit last year. I was taught by my late Mum, who died in November so it helps keep her ‘alive’.”

Whether you’re crafting for personal reasons, or just fancy a go at something new, lockdown 3.0 is definitely the time to give something a try – and if you’re rubbish at it…who cares?!

Read to improve your mental health

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A post shared by Danielle Kate 🌻 (@ginbooksandlookss)

Reading has been shown to put our brains in the same state as when we meditate.

Regular readers are said to sleep better, have lower stress levels, higher self-esteem, and lower rates of depression than non-readers.

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Some of us still just don’t know how to structure our time, but putting your phone on do not disturb mode and reading a book is the perfect way to ignore the constant stream of negative news and lose yourself in someone else’s narrative.

Whatever your preferred genre may be, reading certainly seems to be a hit with Prestonians, with Caroline Finnigan commenting: “I’ve been sent some gems of books through 6 of the best collections from the library!”

Try tracking your progress with Goodreads to keep you motivated.

Put your feet up and binge watch a TV show

One of the most popular things to do was to just watch some TV.

Binge watching a series under a blanket with some great snacks seems like a very good option at the moment when the weather is unpredictable.

Here are some suggestions of TV shows which seem to be popular with the people of Preston:

• Mr Mercedes
• Anne with an E
• Bridgerton (we couldn’t not mention this!)
• The Queen’s Gambit
• The Bay

Cook a new recipe

Lockdown has certainly been the time for people to perfect their culinary skills.

From the banana bread of lockdown one, to the utterly irresistible Tik Tok wraps, there’s been plenty of inspiration out there.

Blog Preston reader Ste Ashurst posted a picture of his delicious looking
Penne Ragu Alforno and it really got our mouths watering!

Cooking and baking is a great way to bond with family and friends – why not reconnect on Zoom with a close friend and bake something sweet together?

How have you been coping with the third lockdown? Share any tips with us in the comments below.