The Positive Takeaways from a Pandemic

We’re living in unprecedented times and our lives and careers are irrevocably changed. Jobs have been shed, habits have been disrupted and communities have been disconnected. It seems like too many dreadful events have happened in such a short time, but during these times we’ve found new ways of learning, and I must stress the importance of focusing on the positives in every situation. Below you’ll find the practical takeaways from COVID-19:

• Healthier Habits: our senior citizens are the most vulnerable population to COVID-19, but new evidence is showing the population that suffers from obesity, diabetes and hypertension are also at risk of developing complications from the virus. If this is indicative of anything, it’s that we must reassess our diets, our physical activity and, most importantly, our frame of mind. Nutrition, exercise and emotional stability. Several studies have shown that a flexitarian diet (centred on plant foods), 20 minutes of brisk walking three times a week (all the better if outdoors) and 15 min of meditation per day will keep us in shape, boost our immune system, improve our cognitive functions and combat the effects of aging.
• Appreciation for Technology: for the most part, we have a love-hate relationship with technology. During self-imposed isolation and physical distancing, technology has shown that it really is an incredible took when we use it for the right purpose. With it, we’ve been able to keep in touch with our cherished ones, and we retained some semblance of normalcy by continuing to work and study even when schools and offices were closed.
• Consciousness and Minimalism: Our carbon footprint grows bigger and bigger every year and the Earth can’t sustain our current lifestyle. It is time to be more conscious of our consumption choices and make an effort to avoid items we don’t need. At the same time, we can be more mindful and appreciate the little things in our lives. Create emotions, not garbage. Cultivate memories instead of worshipping consumerism. Choose wisely, buy less, and make it last!

We are going through a life-changing event and we must cherish these lessons and build on them. What can you do to foster mindfulness and conscious communities?

What did COVID-19 teach you? What did you learn from these times?