Can creative expression lessen our boredom and depression during crisis? And can creative thinking be the pathway to a whole new normal, better than what we've left behind?

As schools in NSW return to the classroom, parents praise teachers for their efforts, teachers balance both online and face-to-face teaching, and our kids step back into, well, who knows what? Let's not close our home school classrooms just yet!

We may never again take for granted a hug from a friend, our favourite social group or a spontaneous backyard barbeque. Social distancing is changing how we connect right now. But can it give us new insights into social isolation, and shift us from self-focus to a desire for more meaningful community connection?

We're lucky enough here in Australia to be able to get our hands on fresh, quality food, even our favourite takeaway during lockdown. Let's not take our privilege for granted, including the social value in food sharing.

What happens when we go from rat race to rats in a cage isolation? When our adrenaline fuelled lives are put on hold, how do we know when we've done enough, when we have enough, that we are enough?

With the lockdown restrictions forcing us to work (and school) from home, it's easy to imprison ourselves further with tight routines. Take your time to get into a groove and find your "new normal" way of living and working.

This story has a beautiful beginning...and ends right here, in the Covid 19 "new normal".