Prioritise health and well-being – and that of the children

Our readers have their say on doctors’ advice, the fate of rescue animals, and distance in relationships

Residents are being urged to get back to a healthy routine as restrictions on movement are lifted, including spending more time outdoors and exercising. Chris Whiteoak / The National

With reference to Joan Muwahed's report Coronavirus: neglecting health during pandemic is 'recipe for disaster', UAE doctors warn (July 5): mental health should be the biggest concern at this point, especially for children. It's not natural for children not to play outside.

Lamy L, Abu Dhabi

Rescue animals can do with being let in to good homes

With reference to Sarah Maisey's piece I've fostered more than 50 animals in 13 years and it is my greatest joy (June 28): what a lovely heartwarming article. I loved every sentence, and how she describes with such passion what a wonderful addition a rescue animal is to your life. I hope many other people will allow a rescue animal into their hearts and home. There are so many in need right now.

Lorraine Ludman, Dubai

The new normal for pupils is not without challenges

With regard to Anam Rizvi's report Coronavirus: Dubai pupils to wear masks during lessons and seats must be 1.5 metres apart when schools reopen (July 5): quite intimidating that there are, in all, 118 protocols to be followed. The dos and don'ts outlined typify the new normal.

Joel Saldanhaa, Abu Dhabi

Important to work on relationships during the pandemic

I write to you in reference to Katy Gillett's story 'He's incredibly supportive': Jennifer Gates opens up about her relationship with Egyptian showjumper Nayel Nassar (July 1): it is worth reflecting on whether distance during the pandemic has made us distant with our loved ones. It's a tricky one. The pandemic has affected people differently, the extent of remoteness varying from person to person and how each of us handles our relationships.

Distance affects not only romantic relationships. It can affect friends, siblings, parents, mother-daughter, teacher-students, bonds between colleagues and all those who you can think of right now.

While a little distance has benefits, too much can hamper ties that make your soul happy, your day brighter and keep you going. It’s important to keep up with people, ask about their day but keep expectations at bay. Not everyone always wants to or can talk when you reach out.

Being open and honest helps keep communication real and fosters trust, a very fragile thing. There will always be insecurities but these have to be dealt with maturely. Talk. Focus on nurturing equations that matter to you, no ego, tricks or manipulation. Every relationship has a specific language that helps remove distance. Make every communication count; it is a skill to not be taken lightly.

Lamiya Siraj, Abu Dhabi