Human beings are social beings, whether we’re introverts or extroverts or a little bit of both we all need interactions with our species to learn, grow, empathize and connect with. COVID-19 has not just denied us of our daily work life or activities but also most importantly our interactions with our friends, colleagues and family. This has invariably led me and I’m guessing a few more of you out there to spend a lot more time with yourselves and the emerging thoughts in your head.
With all this extra time to think about the tragedies around us and how they may affect us or our loved ones, it’s hard to stay positive, it’s hard to feel and be yourself when you are trapped in your house and it’s hard to break away or distance ourselves from these disturbing thoughts as there’s no real external stimulus or different background.
I spent my first few days of the lockdown contemplating what the world would look like once all this was done , checking worldometer constantly for updates on those affected and being highly anxious and unmotivated. However, after I decided to take charge of my quarantine experience, It was alarming for me to see I was actually talking to my friends a lot more( and actually rekindled a few friendships,which had estranged due to our busy lives), working a lot harder(I’m talking 12 hour workdays) and spending way more time focusing and improving myself. Instead of spending time constantly in a state of angst with the uncertainty of the world around me I decide to take control of my life and what I wanted to give my utmost importance to.
I needed to feel some calm in an age of complete chaos so these are 5 things that are helping me stay sane, productive and happy during this pandemic.
1.Meditating
Meditating is almost a buzz word used all too often without it not being explained in its essence. Meditation is not meant to be intimidating and for all those beginners reading this just a simple 1 minute of closing and clearing your mind every morning. This will allow you to distance yourself from any sort of negativity and will get you motivated and ready to take on the world.
2. Communication
I started this piece by saying we are social animals.My daily routine includes talking to my friends everyday. Even if it’s just for a minute , if you’re concerned they too are ,even if you haven’t talked to them in awhile we all need a little love and appreciation right now . Another way to focus on positive and entertaining interactions with your friends is to practice weekly or daily routines together like games night . We at Aara have a daily gratitude journal where we share 3 things we’re most grateful for when we wake up.
3.Routine
Having a routine during lockdown is essential for mental clarity. When days are merging into weeks it’s so so so important to have a track of what you’re doing and attempting your best to stay present. This routine should include work hours, a work out, some down time, some social time and family time. I know this might seem a little hectic but I must mention how important it is to segregate what you do. It will allow you to have times of your day you look forward to when you’re in confinement.
4.Dress to impress
I think it’s so important to dress up for your day. It will make you feel more confident and be more productive in whatever you do. I know taking off those comfy tracks might seem so dull but you don’t want to lose your youness! It’s my way of staying positive, interested and giving what I’m doing not only importance but also my full attention because I’m preparing for it in advance.
5.Learn something new
I think what lockdown has given me is time. I personally think this is a gift that cannot be taken lightly. With the lockdown keeping everything so stagnant it is important to spend this time learning something new and focusing on self growth. It may include an online course, reading, learning a new skill or taking care of yourself ,everything we know is about to disrupt it’s up to you to stay sane and keep your mind relevant.I can’t think of a better way than focusing on how you can become a better version of yourself.