Editor
10-Oct-2020
Lockdown of months have restricted our movement by constraining us within the walls of home and by putting a pause on our usual routine. Ms Ajeeta Mulye, Psychologist & Outreach Associate, Mpower - The Foundation, explains how the lockdown has changed our routine which takes a toll on our mental health and what should we do about it.
Work from home has led to problems like headaches due to constant screen time, and joint pains due to lack of muscle movement. It has also blurred the line between personal time and work time adding a burnout feeling at the end of the day. The meals are either skipped or there is an overeating due to stress leading to weight gain. Further, our socialization been paused, we are now craving for social outings with loved ones which we use to look forward for over the weekend.
In short, these changes have taken a toll on our mental health further bringing down our immunity- which needs to be strong in the time of pandemic. Apart from eating healthy, one way to build up on immunity as well as mental health is to stay active through atleast 1 hour of exercise and get the muscles moving. This can be executed in feasible manner, without requiring any hi tech equipment, through yoga, walking, jogging, and using staircase.
Yoga asanas and pranayama are best forms of exercise to build on immunity, flexibility, enhance body functions and mind-body connection. Also, exercise in combination with therapy and/or psychiatric medication helps in many mental health issues which are on rise during this lockdown. Lockdown is making us worried, edgy and restless due to its uncertainty. Regular yoga practice can help to stay calm and relaxed giving peaceful sleep, and can give you the strength to face uncertainty without getting edgy. Focusing your attention to breathe can help to free the mind of the needless clutter of thoughts that breeds anxiety. Regular meditation can help to reduce stress by relaxing the tense muscles in body, bring the heart rate to normal and reduce perspiration. Exercise helps to release chemicals like endorphins which in turn improves mood especially in depression. It helps to enhance attention span and focus among the Attention deficit and hyperactive children as well as increase tolerance level.
Reconnecting with hobbies- art work, dancing, cooking, creative writing, listening to music, etc can help to change the mood as well as unwind self.
Involving in recreational activities and exercise of 1 hour can bring peace, restoring a sense of mental wellbeing which is a dire need of situation.
