WHO would have thought that we’d experience a pandemic in our lifetime? Well... Bill Gates made a warning about it five years ago, and some medical experts made a study regarding the same but generally, we only see such a scene on fictional movies.
Throughout the years, various drills have been taught in educational institutions and in industrial setting to prepare for natural calamities and in some cases - even man-made disasters. The government has been conditioning us to be aware and well prepared as we anticipate “the big one” earthquake. Whenever the alarm bell sounded, our mind is set to ‘duck, cover and hold.’ Without training, the usual muscle memory goes on “run, scream and run.”
People got used to earthquakes, typhoons, flooding, volcanic eruptions, even epidemic - but Bill Gates was right when he said that we are not prepared for such a health crisis with a global impact like the Covid-19 pandemic. In our country alone, the infection has affected more than six thousand people as the numbers are expected to rise each day. Several people have died already including highly respected physicians and the nation is scrambling for a safe and effective solution to win this battle against the corona virus.
And while most of us are staying at home, members inside a household try to find ways to keep themselves preoccupied to maintain not only their physical health but also their mental state. Some people on enhanced community quarantine are experiencing the so-called cabin fever which refers to the feeling of restlessness or irritability when a person is isolated in one area for a long time. The fact that our tropical country is currently in dry season adds up to the discomfort especially to those households that do not have any air-conditioning unit - plus the limited distribution of relief goods makes the scenario a lot more depressing. But despite these limitations and sacrifices, we are still fortunate enough than the forefathers who experienced the 1918 Spanish Flu. None of those people have experienced the technology we have today.
Outbreaks can be stressful and being under ECQ makes the situation more uncomfortable as the situation progresses. There goes the fear about your own health and your loved ones. Some may have difficulty sleeping or may have changes in sleeping patterns. But there are ways to cope with the stress.
First, you need to take care of your body. You can start by eating healthy, keeping hydrated and getting plenty of sleep. For those who are allowed to exercise, better do so. It is found to be a good remedy for stress and anxiety. Alcohol has become an essential product since the spread of the virus that others start to act like a wise guy justifying it’s fine to consume bottles of liquor. Health experts keep reminding us that alcohol intake may decrease the level of one’s immune system. International and local celebrities have been sharing their routine exercises and yoga positions on line while also being under quarantine. These might be helpful as a guide but always ask for medical clearance if such exercise is appropriate for you. For those who are only allowed with limited physical exertion, a simple meditation or perhaps a guarded stretching may do.
Keeping updated on what’s the latest about Covid-19 is a wise thing to do but watching about the pandemic repeatedly can also be stressful. That is why it is important to take some breaks from listening, viewing, reading or streaming to news stories about this medical crisis. Bottom line is do not rely too heavily on social media, gadgets and television.
Being on quarantine does not mean that a person cannot be productive. Take advantage of this period to make general cleaning of the house - fix some furniture, wax the floor, clean the shoes, bags and the toys of the kids. You can basically do what the Karate Kid did while training under Mister Miyagi. Experiment with your cooking or try something new with your baking skills. You can also arrange with your boss to work from home, if possible. If you are working for Councilor Indiongco, never attempt to take your work at home.
Bond with your children and do assignments together. There are good visual learning topics on YouTube and on other kid sites on the web. Do house chores together and create some playtime. They will remember these moments when they become parents too.
Make time to unwind and find some good read. Do not use the old alibi about not having enough time to read - now is the chance to open those pages. If you have that artist in you, paint. If you’re a musician, play and share your music with other people.
Connect with your family, friends and loved ones. The technology we have today helps a lot in keeping our sanity and well-being amidst the pandemic. And we have a variety of choices to connect without physically touching through the help of the internet. We have Facebook, FB messenger, Viber, WeChat, Zoom, etc. Maintain a healthy form of communication and avoid discussion that could create conflict.
It is important to maintain a positive attitude during the lockdown although keep in mind that arguments may occur along the course. Try to resolve issues as soon as possible to keep the spirits up during the ECQ.
At the end of the day, give thanks to the Lord for keeping us together as we pray for mercy and healing during these uncertainties.
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Kuya J Pelayo IV is a Kapampangan broadcast journalist. For comments and suggestions, e-mail at 4th.pelayo@gmail.com