These are unprecedented times. Almost like a war against an `invisible enemy’. Section 144 has been imposed to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus . So, in short you cannot go out anywhere now. How should you handle this? we suggest, if you can’t go outside then go inside. Look inwards and be mindful. `Thank You’ and `Gratitude’ are the two words which will stand you in good stead during this lockdown period.
It’s a difficult phase when everybody’s normal is broken, you can’t follow your normal gym or walking routine, you have to stand in line to buy groceries, husband in-laws all are at home, children can’t even go to the garden and maids are not around. In India, we are so much dependent on taking household help. Now, you can’t even send your children to the garden, for their normal hobby classes or to the neighbor’s house.
Your weekly dinner outings are out and visit to the malls have stopped. And e-commerce shopping to has come to a standstill. This is the time of the year when families in India plan for their vacations and take off to foreign locations. Children plan their summer holidays with grandparents.
Well none of that is happening this year. So, what should we do? Here are a few pointers we give you even if you are inspired to follow a few of these, we will be happy.
*First step is to mentally accept the reality and make a few changes. Maybe it’s time to rewire our brains and learn to accept the new reality. Also teach your children some tough lessons. That you cannot take all good things for granted and learn to do with whatever little we have.
*So when was a last time when you got a good 21 days for yourself? Maybe never. You always had targets and responsibilities whether you are a student, homemaker or a working professional. Make the most of these 21 days.
*At least you are safe and sound in your own home. Don’t call it a lockdown. You have been avisedto stay home for your safety. Think of many others who are stuck in hospitals, migrant workers who have been rendered homeless for the time being.
*Set a goal for the next month and try to achieve it. It could be about sticking to a healthy meal, losing weight, reading a book or learning to strum your guitar again.
*Learn Meditation. You could just start by sitting in Vajrasana take a deep breath. Slowly close your eyes and focus your mind on your breath. Focus your attention on your third eye, in between your eyebrows. Play some chanting and soothing music in the background.
*Fitness and exercise will stand you in good stead. If you are a runner walk up and down the stairs.
* Follow your Yoga routine. Take up a certain challenge. Do a one minute Plank, a certain number of pushups, squats or lunges. Set a target and increase the number every day.
*This is the time to play luddo, carom, and chess with your children. Enroll them for an online activity.
*Binge watching can take toll on your eyes after a while. Restrict it to an hour or two every day.
*Be of help to the community. Donate food to the poor, help out daily wage workers who have no livelihood or savings left to survive.
