COVID-19 pandemic was unforeseen; it came fast and hit hard. The situation was getting better, but with the second wave of the pandemic, the entire nation may soon witness another strict lockdown or face stricter curbs. Migrants who came back to the city are again leaving and going back to their hometowns. Many people are isolated from their families and friends. This situation is leading to people feeling alone, anxious and depressed. It is fair to say that pandemic has affected everybody’s mental health intensely. In this article, we will talk about a few things you can do to keep your mind healthy during this period.
Using technology to the fullest to stay connected: Technology has been a great boon during this pandemic as it offered people a way to stay connected with their loved ones. If you are feeling alone and isolated, you just have to pick up your phone and start a video call to connect with your close ones. Apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, Google Meet, Zoom, amongst others, are some of the options at your disposal. You can talk out anything that might be bothering you as keeping it to yourself will only force you to overthink and make the matter worse.
Lead a balanced life: The pandemic outbreak forced people to work from home. It has been relatively tough for a lot of people since the workflow has substantially changed, and people took quite some time to adjust to the new normal. A lot of people have blurred the boundaries between working and living a personal life during this time. You need to set clear boundaries between the two and give time to yourself. It is equally important to have some time to focus on your health and indulge in your favourite hobbies.
Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is a mental state that can be achieved by being aware of the current scenario and patiently accepting it. It is a quality that we all have within ourselves, and we just need to appreciate it. When we practice mindfulness – we are creating space to think, introspect, retrospect and create inner peace. You need to spare some time daily and indulge in meditation or yoga. The only goal is to relax your mind and remove any negative thoughts that might be bothering you.
Exercise and a healthy diet: It can’t be emphasized enough how important exercise and a healthy diet is for your mind and body. Exercise not only alleviates stress but also improves immunity and overall health condition, which is highly essential to be maintained during this period. Alongside, a well-balanced diet must be followed. It promotes good health, improves your mood and makes your mind active and focused. According to several studies, exercise has a direct effect on curing depression and anxiety. So, it’s vital to get moving…
Listed above are a few things that can be done to stay mentally healthy during this situation. Do share your preferred ways of maintaining good health during this lockdown period.
– By Vrutika Dawda, Director, IdeateLabs