FAITH IN THE TIME OF CORONA

Have you been feeling anxious lately? Stressed out from all the news? Scared of the thought that you can get infected too? Well, we all are. Perhaps, that is the reason why it led you here.

Given the current situation we are facing, most of the companies around the world were forced to halt their operations. As a result, hundreds of millions of employees were temporarily laid-off. This pandemic has crippled our economy and employment status, truly affected our educational and healthcare systems, and above all, it has much influenced our psychosocial behaviors. The government officials are stringently implementing rules to contain the virus. Healthcare professionals are doing their best to treat those who have been infected. The public was strongly advised to STAY AT HOME.

We cope differently with this situation. But one thing is for sure, it gives us all the feels — fear, uneasiness, frustration, sadness, helplessness, and the list goes on. It has been months since the Enhanced Community Quarantine started, yet the number of individuals who are going through depression, anxiety, and stress is gradually increasing. That is why we need to pay more attention to our mental health.

I will share with you some ways on how to maintain a positive mindset during the pandemic. To begin with, you have to know that you are not alone and that we’ll get through this. Take this opportunity to reflect on yourself and change which part of your routine, attitude or way of thinking is making you counterproductive. After all, you are what you think.

TAKE A DEEP BREATH

Have you taken a deep breath today? Did you know that it helps decrease your stress and increase your sense of calm? In other words, it relaxes you. Try doing the 4-7-8 breathing technique regularly. Make use of the aromatherapy with calming scents like lavender, jasmine, chamomile, and peppermint for a more relaxed feeling.

PRAY

“PRAYER is the most important weapon against trials, the most effective medicine against sickness and the most valuable gift to someone you love.” Not only we can pray at the churches, but also in our homes. Pray before you sleep and when you wake up. Thank GOD for blessing you another day. HE listens. HE knows what your heart truly desires. Seek for HIS guidance always. In this time of suffering and despair, praying brings a feeling of peace and joy into your heart. Just keep your focus on the things that you are grateful for.

LIMIT YOUR MEDIA EXPOSURE

This is the most crucial part. Limit the time you spend watching the news, particularly on social media. Yes, we all want pieces of information and updates from the local government, but too much of it only aggravates our anxiety. Misinformation on social media creates unnecessary fear and panic. We sometimes get tangled in reading people’s comments in any post we come across that it leaves us feeling overwhelmed and miserable. Practice checking the authenticity of the contents. Other than that, just keep yourself busy by doing something productive such as interacting with your kids (if you have), watching TV series and movies, and cooking and learning new recipes. All of it temporarily leaves your anxiety behind.

EXERCISE

“Exercise not only changes your body, but also your mind, attitude, and your mood.” It regulates stress and anxiety; even helps you relax and sleep better. There are a lot of simple workout routines that you can do at home; whether to improve your body’s performance, or just to improve the way your body looks. While you exercise, your body releases endorphins, a powerful chemical in your brain that energizes your spirit. So, play the music now and sweat it out!

READ A BOOK

When was the last time you read a book? According to studies, reading can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia since it keeps your brain active. Aside from learning new information, you also gain exposure to unfamiliar words thus, it broadens your vocabulary. It also strengthens your analytical thinking skills, improves your focus and concentration. Reading spiritual texts can lower blood pressure and bring about an immense sense of calm, while reading self-help books has been shown to help people suffering from certain mood disorders and mild mental illnesses.

HAVE FAITH

It is indeed devastating to know that hundreds of thousands of people have already died because of COVID-19. The possibility of getting the infection is extremely frightening. Keeping track of news updates being broadcasted 24/7 might cause you psychological distress. What good can it give if you focus on those things? Mindset is everything. Focus on what you can control. Be proactive and not reactive. After all, the experts are doing their best to create a vaccine. We just need to do our part.

These are just few out of the many ways we can help ourselves to look at the brighter side. You are actually helping just by staying indoors. Never lose hope. Surround yourself with optimistic people; not literally though. Check up on your family and friends through video calls. If someone is conveying so much negativity specifically on social media, feel free to unfollow. You don’t need that kind of energy, not now.

As this circumstance may take longer, always know that this is only temporary. Remind yourself of resiliency always. Below are some of the phrases I find inspiring as we go through probably the toughest time of our lives:

“You have power over your mind — not outside events.

Realize this, and you will find strength.” – Marcus Aerelius

"Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood.

Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less." - Marie Curie

"When the world is running down, you make the best of what's still around." – Sting

"Life will give you whatever experience is most helpful for the evolution

of your consciousness." – Eckhart Tolle

“This too shall pass” – Rumi

"Everything will be okay in the end. If it's not okay, it's not the end." – John Lennon