COVID 19 has had an impact globally on a large scale. The Indian government has implemented a lock down to ensure the containment of the virus – meaning following the social distancing measures, schools and businesses closing, and companies declaring work from home as mandatory except those involved in essential services and medical fraternity, we are all forced to face a new reality.
“Man is a social animal,” said Aristotle. We like to bond, engage and be close to people, and we are now forced to change our behavior, which can create a feeling of loneliness. While it may feel like life has come to a standstill, there are ways to keep these times in perspective and learn how to move on. We need to remind ourselves that COVID-19 is a grave but temporary illness, and that life will soon return to normal in sometime.
However, while we are still in the grips of the deadly virus which has not yet shown signs of tapering down, it is totally understandable that most of us may be already be showing signs of loneliness, feelings of fear, stress, constant worry, different levels of anxiousness by the constantly bombarding alerts and media coverage regarding the spread of the virus.
While it is important to stay up to date on the developments that are happening in your vicinity and the world at large, let me get you started on few tips on “How to be Mindful”, while continuing to lookafter yourself and your family membersduring these tough times.
- Be Mindful about how long you spend your time on watching news on Covid-19. Please LIMIT SCREEN TIME about COVID-19
- Be Mindful about your discussions with reference to COVID 19 as it can increase or decrease your child’s fear. ENSURE you take time to engage your family in discussions other than Covid-19
- Be Mindful of your breathing. PRACTISEDEEP BREATHING along with your family /children as a method to calm the nervous system.
- Mindfully place the spotlight on the positive of the situation by celebrating more time with family. Play games, do family projects, allow children to connect with friends and relatives virtually etc.
- Be Mindful about sticking to routines as children thrive on routines. PUT IN PLACE A ROUTINE for the days under lockdown as it ensures a sense of control and well being for your child.
- Be Mindful of your interactions with your child. WATCHING WITH INTENT will open up to you his actions for any hints and indications that they may want to talk to you, such as hovering around you during your household chores or asking a few questions about the pandemic and going back to play and then coming back again with a few more.
- Be Mindful of how you respond to your child’s queries, THE KEY here is to keep it short and simple. The answers should be honest and age appropriate. Tell the facts without creating fear and anxiety. Remind them that grown ups are working to take care of the situation.
May you be safe.
May you be healthy.
May you be peaceful
May you live with ease.
Dr. Swathi Menon
Academic Head
