Staying safe during a time of insanity

This month, I chose to write another article on Economics, this time about Economics and Valentine’s Day, however, I felt it was necessary to write an extra one this month due to the circumstances.

As many of us already know, lockdown can be a very stressful and lonely time. We all hoped we wouldn’t end up in the same situation as last year, however, it is for our own safety that we are at home. This situation doesn’t have to be miserable, and should not be miserable. I would like to share some advice that has helped me make the best of what we are currently living through.

Mental health

Firstly, I want to point out that mental health is extremely important. As many of our teachers have already pointed out, having a routine is something that can really help us get through this time of difficulty. Something I have learnt that helps me, is drawing a clear difference between the time to relax and the time to work. During our scheduled time of classes, dedicate your full concentration, so that the workload doesn’t pile up later. This makes our relaxed time even more enjoyable.

Secondly, the issue of stress is very common. I urge you all to not fall behind on your studies, because this will cause more stress in the long run. The only way to do this is by trying your best. Teachers are very understanding that online learning is not perfect, and will likely not blame you, as long as you are matching their effort.

To those of you who are struggling, communicate. Student council exists for a reason. If you have any ideas as to how your online experience can be improved, please let us know.

Physical health

I know you have probably all been hearing about this a lot, but physical activity is necessary. I know that many of you have suffered from the closing of gyms or spores clubs, and here are some ideas for how to keep up the activity. To those of you who claim to not do any physical activity regularly, it’s not true- remember the hills at OIS?

Going for a run is one nice suggestion, however, some of you do not like running, which is understandable. Another thing that you could do is go for a walk. There are many health benefits to walking such as increased cardiovascular and pulmonary fitness, or improved management of conditions such as joint and muscular pain. Overall, walking gives us a stronger balance by strengthening our bones. To those of you who may not be able to go outside as you are quarantined, do not stress, put on some music, and dance for a bit.

Make this time meaningful

The last thing I want to point out is something I learnt from the previous quarantine... In these moments, we must strive to do things that don’t make us look back and ask “where did all that time go” or “quarantine was so boring”. This is a time to make memories, even if they are not the ones you had hoped for in your teenage years. Spend some quality time with your siblings or parents, and do things that will make your quarantine experience desirable. Here are some examples; try new recipes, attempt a safe science experiment at home, learn to play an instrument, paint. Our quarantine experience is not limited to our computer screen.

Another thing that can help us feel accomplished after this, is writing. Make a journal or diary on how you are feeling, and what you are doing. That way, when quarantine ends, you have evidence of what you have done and what you have accomplished.

I know that this is getting long, so I won’t bore you with anything else, however, there is one last thing I feel I need to mention. Staying sane isn’t about staying busy all the time. Take a second to breathe, watch the sunset, read a book and appreciate simplicity during times of craziness.

Stay safe :)