2020…and the world has been locked down. Who would have thought this could ever happen? Many of us had been planning where we would vacation this year, and how we would celebrate our birthdays, anniversaries, and other milestones of our lives. But, our old ways of living have been changed forever; and with it, all our priorities and activities have undergone a sea change. In times like this, it is possible to fall prey to destructive mental patterns. It is easy to feel isolated, lonely, overwhelmed and depressed.
How we get over our current situation remains to be seen – only time will tell. For the time being though, what is important is to stay as focussed and level-headed as we possibly can. So, what better way to cope, than to use these times of enforced inactivity to make serious changes in the way we live, going forward.
It is normal to feel lost and listless when you feel imprisoned within the four walls of your home, lacking the freedom to step outside. Many of us have been working from home, carrying out household chores and keeping fit by exercising…and while these are all geared to take care of your physical body, most of us have been taking our mental health for granted.
Mental health does not mean entertainment such as binge-watching shows, gaming, or playing board games…it means being calm, peaceful, positive and hopeful under any circumstances. Your mental health is of paramount importance for it drives you as an individual, spilling into every aspect of your life. Anxiety, fear and depression can be common at a time like this. So, if you need to do just one thing…consider not watching the news throughout the day. Restrict it to no more than twice a day.
I would like to share with all of you, some ideas about how to take care of yourself…by showing you what has worked for me. This is by no means an exhaustive list – rather, a personal one, showing my perspective.
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Planning your day: Make a list of things to do, and tick them off as you finish, to feel a sense of accomplishment.
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Dig up an old hobby: Dust the cobwebs off your books, listen to music that moves you, sing (even if you are just a bathroom singer), dance to a nice beat…basically, anything that will raise your endorphin levels, making you feel happy.
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Journal: Even if you have never done so before. Put your thoughts to paper. Your writing may feel stiff and stilted initially, but it will become smoother as you go on.
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Call a friend or loved one: Communication is one of the keystones of mental health. We LGs sure know the power of community. So, join virtual ‘meet ups’ and make new friends.
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The power of prayer: If you believe in a higher power, the power of prayer cannot be ignored. The belief in a superior power can provide great comfort at this time.
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Meditation: Though I have mentioned it last, it actually tops my list. If you have never meditated before, try and learn the basics. The internet is full of ideas on ways to meditate. It gives you the ability to turn inward, to find strength from the power that you have within, to seek answers to the purpose of your life, and who you are and where you are going in this lifetime. It will bring you into equilibrium, while filling you with peace, hope and joy. It will refresh and rejuvenate you, transforming your anxiety into calmness and changing your perspective…and this will turn your whole world around.
I sincerely hope I was able to give you some ideas, and also hope you will share some ideas of your own. Till then, here’s to good mental health.
May the force be with you.
@TravellerG
@Ant_Bad_Yogi
@Gurukrishnapriya
@Shrut19
@Tejal
@FalguniP
@EmekaUlor
@LeyleyS
@Mohammadalauddin
@AmbrishVarshney
