The Rule of Six: RICHARD

Conscious of his health, Richard goes on walks as much as he can, using his Fitbit to keep track of exercise and set himself goals to keep fit and healthy. One of his favourite places to go is Talkin Tarn, although it has been difficult to get out and about like normal with so many restrictions in place during the lockdowns.

It can be very easy to get bored when you sit inside 24/7, yet Richard always finds things to do to keep himself occupied, such as odd jobs like painting and decorating around the house to planting and cutting the grass in the garden. He’s also found himself reading more books and watching more TV during the lockdown.

Richard says that there are some days where he doesn’t feel like doing anything, but he forces himself to get up, get dressed and do something as he believes that is the only way to avoid deteriorating.

From his time in the army, Richard has found it quite easy to find and stick to a routine. His military experience taught him self-discipline and his willpower has enabled him to just crack on with the day. Having been brought up to respect everybody, Richard has also been more mindful of others and their health throughout the pandemic.

Richard is thankful that he knows how to use technology, so he hasn’t experienced many issues connecting with friends and family - in fact, he’s actually found himself talking to people more with it!

Even though Richard couldn’t see people face-to-face, he could at least talk to others with FaceTime, Whatsapp, Facebook Messenger or phone calls.

Using the iPad to make video calls, Richard has been able to see his family and stay connected, especially with his grandkids. He’s been keeping in touch with friends from the Regiment on Facebook, and enjoyed taking part in the Regimental birthday online.

The iPad also comes in handy to play different games that keeps him entertained and his brain ticking over.

Take every day as it comes. You don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow, so get on with what you’ve got to do. Keep on top of your jobs, no matter how small, because they all add up!

Once you lose your routine, it’s very easy to lose track of your health, so make sure you discipline and respect yourself to take care of your mental and physical health. Since we all can’t do much exercise as usual during the lockdown, it’s important to do as much as you can to stay fit physically and mentally.