A regular health and lifestyle column from Corinne Yeadon, of the Being Better private therapy practice based in Newmarket Street, Skipton

AS with any change, no matter how negative or disruptive, there are often surprises.

Furlough and working from home has meant quality family time and home schooling of children.

Art and craft supplies have been in huge demand as people of all ages have embraced creativity as an enjoyable and purposeful use of time.

Baking has become one of the most popular time filling activities with the likes of icing sugar and baking powder being a commodity as elusive as a black French truffle. Niggly, “must get round to…” repair jobs are being tackled by DIY novices and enthusiasts alike.

Pruned privets, manicured lawns, flourishing vegetable patches and resplendent blooms are evident in gardens nationwide, some of which are worthy of RHS status.

I can’t help but wonder if the glorious sunshine, clear blue skies and waterways are a result of less traffic and pollution on land and in the air.

Are we paying attention to nature and wildlife more or is flora and fauna actually thriving unencumbered by man?

Random acts of kindness have been an integral part of lockdown and provoke such joy and appreciation. There has been active recognition of NHS, care providers, service industries and community heroes.

This strange and bewildering time has also allowed re-evaluation and taking stock of what is important and what isn’t.

Reflections on 2020 and the devastation caused by coronavirus will hopefully also be combined with memories of the positives and realisations that people and the connections we make are what really matter.