We all need to come together as a community and protect the elderly, who are most at risk to the Coronavirus Pandemic. Quarantine helps to slow the spread of virus across the population. Self-Quarantine is staying at home and avoiding contact with others as a precaution OR if you have developed flu-like symptoms or been exposed to the virus until the infectious period is over.
PART ONE
With many countries on lock down, flights cancelled, airlines on the verge of bankruptcy, stock market crashing and the famous toilet paper shortage- it’s hard NOT to panic. However everyone needs to take a step back, breathe and clear their heads for just a few seconds. We need to realize that we are more connected today than ever before. There are 20 BILLION devices connected to the internet.
Yes, the coronavirus is a pandemic and yes we need to take preventative measures. That doesn’t mean we view ‘quarantine’ in a negative way. This is your prime opportunity to disconnect with the ever-so-busy lifestyle (the rat-race) and connect with yourself.
Start by making a list of ALL the things you wanted to learn/read/develop and MAKE A DETAILED PLAN OF ACTION for the coming 2-4 weeks.
PART TWO
First and foremost, PLEASE realize there is a DIFFERENCE between stocking up and HOARDING. Be mindful of others around you. This is why part 1 of the planning phase is so important. Whether you live alone or with someone, preplanning can help prevent hoarding.
Some areas to help you get started with the planning are:
|
Food Items |
Toiletries |
Pharmacy |
| Poultry, fish and other meat
Dairy products Beans & Lentils Coffee & Tea and other snacks Fruits and Veggies Pet Food
|
Hygiene products; deo, shampoo, razer etc
Soaps Cleaning supplies
|
Medications
First aid kit Vitamins
|
If you are allowed to work from home, make sure you setup a proper space for it. It doesn’t need to be fancy, but an allocated desk space can really help be efficient as the charm of ‘working from home’ is short-lived. Avoid doing house chores during working hours to manage your time.
However do take small breaks through and perform light exercises. Have a matt near by so when you feel tired, a few stretches can go a long way. Looking for inspiration for workouts? You will find plenty of free routines on online or download a free app.
PART THREE
Setting up a cleaning routine is very important as it is very easy to get caught up in daily chores during work time. Control the urge to do so.
Meal prepping for a week can be extremely helpful to use the remaining time to do other things you like. Plus it will help you segment out your grocery supply as well.
Lastly, think of projects you have been wanting to do around the house- perhaps organize the drawer that has been begging for order for months now? Or rearrange the living room furniture? Maybe it’s time to get your filing cabinet in order.
PART FOUR
Wanted to learn how to code but you just never had the time to? Well now you do. Or pick up a new language. Duolingo is an excellent free app for it. Use this time to do something productive, it will pay off in a big way later- trust us!
Carve out time to speak to a friend or family too. Having a support system in place midst such a crisis is extremely important for our mental health wellness. We humans generally need a community to be happy. Write a letter to your grandparents. or get on a Google Hangout with your co-workers. FaceTime your friends and family.
Online Therapy is also an excellent option. Many therapists are offering videoconferencing as an option for their patients. This is a tough time for all of us, don’t be afraid to reach out.
If you are running short on supplies or need to get something from the market, try to order it online.
PART FIVE
It’s all a matter of perception. Think of this as being trapped in a cage and you will dread each and every minute spend in quarantine. Think of it as ‘me’ time and investing in self care- and the quarantine becomes a journey to self-discovery.
Make a self care routine out of it. Read that book you had been meaning to, or paint perhaps. Not your cup of tea? Play that new video game you bought. Engage in whatever activity used to bring you joy once upon a time before ‘life’ got in the way- this is your ‘YOU’ time so own it!
PART SIX
If you have a family and you decide to self-quarantine the household, the previous steps are still applicable. In addition of making a plan and routine for yourself, you might have to make additional ones for minors. Having a structure is key to harmony.
It is also equally important to use this opportunity to connect with your family. Plan family time and fun activities like board games or trivia. Perhaps hold a mini reading club.
Connect with your partner and embark on a spiritual journey together. Yet it’s equally important to respect each other’s space.
Spend this precious time playing with your pets too, they will love you for it.
Lastly look around you and appreciate all that you have, there is a lot to be grateful for midst this chaos.
(PLEASE NOTE: If any of you or your family members are infected then the sick person should be in isolation from others. Wear face masks when communicating and disinfect common areas before use. Contact your health authorities for further advice.)
